BRUINS-SENATORS
Take: SENATORS +340 (Series)
With Boston up 1-0 after winning game one at Ottawa, the Bruins are now substantial chalk to win the series. I’ve got no argument that the Bruins rate the favorite’s role having that opener in the win column.
But the Bruins have injury issues heading into Game Two, and they might be enough to impact this series. Defenseman Colin Miller hurt his knee in a collision on Wednesday night, and he could not make it through practice on Friday. Miller is listed as doubtful for tonight’s game. Also, David Krejci is likely going too be unavailable with that is being described as an upper body injury.
Let’s also note that Boston wasn’t exactly dominant in the opening game win. In fact, the Bruins did something highly unusual in that game. They had zero shots on goal in the second period, and yet somehow managed to win the hockey game.
Ottawa knows they can beat the Bruins, as they controlled the regular season series. So I don’t think the Senators are out of this one by a long shot.
My choice to take the big series odds rather than simply playing them tonight is based on price. I think Ottawa wins Game Two, and if I’m correct I’ll have a tied series at a great price. If I’m wrong about tonight, I’ll at least still have life in the series, although admittedly I’d be on a form of life support. In any event, considering the health issues with the Bruins, I believe getting in excess of 3:1 with the Senators is a decent wager.