Season Record:27-18 +6.82
Let’s take a look at some betting trends for this match-up. Tampa Bay is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games and 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road. Tampa Bay is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Pittsburgh and 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Pittsburgh. However, Tampa Bay is the second highest scoring team in the league at 3.4 goals per game. Pittsburgh is 16-7 SU in its last 23 games and 8-3 SU in its last 11 games at home. Pittsburgh is third highest scoring team in the league at 3.2 goals per game. Pittsburgh is second on the power play in the league at 26.0%. However, Pittsburgh allows the second most power plays in the league at 3.9 per game.
Going to try to keep it short and simple on this one. Pittsburgh has owned Tampa Bay in the last couple of years and with Pittsburgh having home ice I don’t see them losing that dominance. I understand that Sidney Crosby will be out for this game. However, Marc-Andre Fleury, who is 7-1-2 with a 2.04 GAA in his last 10 starts, figures to get the nod for the Penguins. He’s won six consecutive starts against the Lightning. Ben Bishop will likely start in net for Tampa Bay, looking to end a personal three-game losing streak during which he’s posted a 3.44 goals-against average. Those two will be the difference in tonight’s game. I think Fleury and the Penguins just simply have the Lightning’s number. Go with what the trends tell you in this one and I believe you will come out a winner. Best of Luck!!!
Play:Pittsburgh Penguins @ 5dimes 1.86
Tagged with: Betting • December • Hockey • NHL • pittsburgh penguins • Tampa Bay Lightning