The Maple Leafs completely choked in the third period yesterday against the Bruins and the Capitals never showed up, so both of my picks from yesterday were losers. That said I went 8 for 8 in my series predictions and you can check out the round two picks here.
Regular Season Record: 68-59 for +11.33 units.
Playoff Record: 11-9 for +2.39 units.
Playoff Series Record: 8-0 for +9.05 units.
Ottawa Senators @ Pittsburgh Penguins
The Senators and Penguins meet for the fourth time in 7 years in the playoffs. The Penguins swept the Sens in the season series, but each game was a battle. I expect Karlsson to come out and play much better than he did against the Canadiens. He did score 6 points in 5 games in the first round series, but by no means was he at his best. I think he will be out for blood in this game, his first against the Penguins since Cooke cut his achilles, but instead of hurting the Pens physically he will aim to do so on the scoreboard. If he can keep his emotions in check I expect a big game from Karlsson.
Anderson hasn’t played in 5 days and this can sometimes take him off his game because he likes to play very often. That said I don’t think the Senators have anything to worry about in goal. I like Bylsma’s decision to stick with Vokoun, but you can bet that after one bad game they will go back to Fleury. I just think the odds are too good to pass up on the Senators in this game. They are well rested and will be ready to go against this strong Pens team.
Play: Senators +185 (SportsInteraction.com)
San Jose Sharks @ Los Angeles Kings
The Sharks haven’t played in a week and this lengthy break may cause them to be a little shaky. The Kings have found their game and have played some great hockey finishing off the Blues on Saturday. They have had a bit of rest, but should be ready to pick up right where they left off. I also like the Kings because they have looked good at home. They won all three home games against the Blues and were 19-4-1 at home in the regular season, for the best home record in the league.
Play: Kings -150 (5Dimes.eu)
Tagged with: Los Angeles Kings • Ottawa Senators • pittsburgh penguins • San Jose Sharks