(21-34  -2.32 units)

Canadiens/Oilers:

Today we have a matchup between two teams drifting in opposite directions.

While Montreal has been quite streaky this season, they are currently in groove right now having won 5 of their last 6 games, including a Western Canada sweep so far coming into Edmonton. Montreal has also played a very dominant style lately, as they rank top three in puck possession this season, but can also find their sharp shooting in games where they are under attack. After some strong puck control in Calgary, it is natural to assume that the Habs will have an even easier team against the other Alberta squad that is dwindling down after a hot start.

The Edmonton Oilers turned heads this season, as they came out of the gates firing unexpectedly and were able to hold the Pacific division lead down up until very recently. However, Edmonton has now lost 6 of their last 7 games, and is now realizing that there is not much depth on this team that relies heavily on the two top point producers. Factor that in with the understanding that the Oilers also have very poor overall puck possession numbers outside their top line and are currently facing game two of a back to back, and hence we have a road favorite with Montreal.

Anyone’s who watched last night’s game against Pittsburgh will know that the game was closer than the score suggests. Edmonton competed fine, and got some poor defensive plays from Ethan Bear and some porous goaltending from backup goaltender Mike Smith. Tonight, Mikko Koskinen will be in net, and the situation should be a little better. While fatigue is always a question in a back to back, I see the Oilers being more revved today to not only play a responsible game, but also to execute offensive schemes on a warmer level after yesterday’s frustrations. On the other hand, I can see Montreal being prone to tiredness as well after spending nearly a week on the road so far.

In essence, I do not feel as though the line setting is reflective of the intangibles of today’s situation. I expect the Oilers to rebound tonight.

Oilers moneyline +105  2*

Panthers/Hurricanes:

Today we have two southeastern teams that are both valid contenders in the 2019-20 season, and are both currently at their best this season too.

Because of sheer puck possession dominance by both, a back to back situation, and a possible backup goalie situation, we have a high total setting with the ability of both teams to score being another factor.

Only problem that may mess with both teams’ abilities to score at will is the fact that high puck possession will run a lot of time off the clock, and also lead to a lot of non quality attempts.

With Florida putting a lot into last night’s game against Dallas, there may be a little less in the tank in regards to momentum execution. With Carolina coming back from Denver as well, we can expect them to also have a few adjustments to make coming home.

More importantly though, I just see both teams trying to play their game, which would mean that the puck moving will not be as fast paced as it would be with less patient teams.

Because of the current streaks, we have a generous total to work with. Let’s take advantage of it.

UNDER 6.5 -112  1*