BlackJack's NHL Bets

Yesterday stunk. Flat out stunk. I was awful, and that's on me. Yesterday is in the past, can't do anything about it. All we can do is look forward. Life is lived looking through the windshield, not the rear view mirror. Today I've focused in on the NHL action and tune into Photo Finish at 3pm ET on the blog and on twitter (@BlackJackBurner) for horse racing action.

New York Islanders (-120, O/U 5) vs. Florida Panthers

The Panthers did a nice job getting the win in Game Three, but if we're being honest I think it was more that the Islanders looked a little sluggish on the second game of a back to back. I think the Islanders will apply enough defensive pressure to slow Florida's offense and end this series before Game Five.

THE PICK: New York ML

Nashville Predators (-130, O/U 5.5) vs. Arizona Coyotes

The Coyotes have done an excellent job in this series of finding the net more frequently than they did in the regular season. Having said that, I think they might feel the pressure a bit here. This is a young team without playoff experience. Nashville has plenty of that. I think the Preds get serious today and force a Game Five.

THE PICK: Nashville ML

Edmonton Oilers (-130, O/U 6.5) vs. Chicago Blackhawks

Chicago has been very solid in this series thus far. But counting Edmonton out just yet feels like a mistake. This is a team with two unbelievable offensive playmakers in Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid. I also like the switch in net to veteran Mike Smith. I think Edmonton puts enough offensive pressure to get the win tonight.

THE PICK: Edmonton ML

Toronto Maple Leafs (-150, O/U 5.5) vs. Columbus Blue Jackets

I could be wrong here. I could be totally wrong. I fully admit that. But I just cannot see how this ends here for Toronto. This is such a talented team, with offensive fire power all over the ice and a solid goalie in net, I just cannot imagine it ending in qualifying play to Columbus. I just can't.

THE PICK: Toronto ML