Here are today's NHL Picks for Friday, November 7, 2008
Ron's Straight Up Record: 110 wins 77 losses
*Note: Ron went 9-2 on Thursday and 3-0 on Wednesday night! Ron's Private Players Pick was Ottawa -135 yesterday!
Ottawa vs. Carolina
VS.
(6.0) (-125)
Ron's Comment: Ottawa is playing some inspiring hockey right now and it seems they've got the momentum building as a unit and they are finally buying into the Craig Hartsburgh system. Ottawa has always been a run and gun hockey team the last few seasons, but they've realize they don't have the defense they once had and the forwards are more involved in their defensive zone. Tough lost last night for Carolina and fatigue could be setting in, as this is their 3rd game in 4 nights and it's a back to back situation. When OTTAWA team played as a Road team - Vs Non Division Opponent - Last 5 years - Coming off a 2 game winning streak; The Sens are 11-4 SU in this role L5Y.
Prediction: Ottawa 4 Carolina 3
Montreal vs. Columbus
VS.
(-160) (5.5)
Ron's Comment: Columbus is coming off an exciting win over Edmonton and now they must re-focus and concentrate on the flying Canadiens. Montreal has not played in 5 days and they have the Leafs on deck. Halak could be the go to guy tonight and Carbonneau will most likely go with Price on Saturday against the Buds. Montreal in a close one!
Prediction: Montreal 3 Columbus 2
Atlanta vs. Buffalo
VS.
(5.5) (-260)
Ron's Comment: If there's one underdog on the card tonight that could cash in for bettors, it's the Atlanta Thrashers. Hedberg is anticipated to get the nod tonight and he's 8-2-1 vs. the Sabres and Buffalo has not looked like the dominant Sabres who started the season by going 6-1. Buffalo has been off 3 days, so rust could cost them early and they have their division rivals on deck, the Boston Bruins!
Prediction: Atlanta 6 Buffalo 4
Dallas vs. Anaheim
VS.
(5.5) (-170)
Ron's Comment: If there's one team Avery and Ott do not want to start their antics against, it's this Ducks team! In fact, this is Dallas first game since their 5-1 lost to Boston last weekend and that game was filled with the fireworks. Ducks are back on track and Turco is expected to get the nod tonight and he's been shaky in nearly every start. When ANAHEIM team played as a home team - Last 4 years - After a non division game - Coming off a Home win as a Favorite - Coming off 1 over; The Ducks are 9-1-1 the last 4 years.
Prediction: Anaheim 3 Dallas 1