PSP Data Driven 1* Sharks +1.5
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Our models suggest that the value is on the Underdog. The Sharks are 6-4 ATS in their last 10 games. The Predators are 1-9 ATS in their last 10 games.
1* Free Sharp Play on Sharks +128
Toronto Maple Leafs have the better offensive upside and are playing at home where I believe their top six should have a considerable advantage. Toronto can deploy Auston Matthews, William Nylander and John Tavares at different points throughout the game across their scoring lines. Doing this creates matchup problems for Buffalo as they will have to defend multiple potent units and cannot simply key in on one line. Toronto is coming into the game with a record of 3-3-1, which is the same as Buffalo but the Leafs appear to have more ability to consistently create offense. They have scored five on Nashville and four in their last road game.
Buffalo’s defense could be without captain Rasmus Dahlin who is day to day with an upper body injury. Dahlin is a big part of Buffalo’s game as they utilize him to drive the play, defend against other teams’ top lines and quarterback their offense from the backend. If he is hurt or even simply played sparingly due to injury the Leafs should be able to generate more offense by driving play and spending more time in the offensive zone creating chances off the cycle and in transition situations. Buffalo lost in a shootout to Montreal on Tuesday so they aren’t coming into this game with much momentum.
Toronto is playing at home where they can take advantage of matchups and get Matthews and Nylander into advantageous positions. Buffalo is 0-1-2 in their last three games at Scotiabank Arena, not winning in Toronto since November 20,23. Home ice advantage and Toronto’s ability to finish games make the Leafs the team I want more in a close contest.
Jim’s Play: 56. Maple Leafs
1*
(#53) New York Islanders | ML | .
New York might be an underdog here. But, I don't believe that the Islanders are going to play like one on Thursday evening. They are a much better side than people are aware of. They just knocked off the Canucks & now head on the road for a pair of road games up in Canada. I believe that this is a great matchup to pull off an upset in.
Ottawa has been elite to begin the season, there's no question about it. However, I don't expect the Sens to keep it up. They aren't as deep as last season and don't have the same fire power in my eyes. That being said, give me the Islanders in this one.
Burns' Prediction: 3-2 Islanders.