Ben Burns

I'm playing Charlotte/Cleveland OVER the total (10* BLUE CHIP TOTAL). These teams met 10 days ago, combining for 220 points. That game just slipped below the closing O/U line of 221.5 or 222. Tonight, we're working with a slightly lower O/U number, which I feel is providing us with excellent value. Other than the fact that the number was high, the primary reason the game at Charlotte stayed below the total was the Cavs' inability to score, particularly in the second half. The Hornets did their part, scoring 126 points. However. However, Cleveland managed just 96, only 42 in the second half. Tonight, however, the Cavs are on their home floor, where they should be considerably more competitive and where they should be able to keep scoring the entire game. The Hornets put up points, regardless of venue. They've hit tripled-digits in every game this season. Expect a relatively high-scoring affair. 

I'm playing on Edmonton/Montreal to finish OVER the total (8* BEST BET). The Canadiens have seen the OVER to 4-0 their past four games. The once stingy Habs have now given up 15 goals in their past three games alone, a minimum of four goals allowed in six of their last seven. (They gave up three in the other one.) The Oiler defense hasn't excactly been stout either, allowing four or more goals in four straight games. Last season's games averaged 6.5 goals. Don't be surprised when they exceed that average tonight. 

I'm playing on NEW YORK (*8). I've successfully played against Vancouver twice in a row. Sorry Canuck fans, I'm going against your team one more time. While the Canucks are nearing the end of a long trip and played at MSG yesterday, the Isles had the past two days off. Having lost three in a row for the first time all season, the Isles are going to be hungry. Allowing just 2.6 goals per game, , a mere 2.2 here at home, the Isles are among the stingiest teams in the league. Expect them to bounce back. 

I'm playing on EDMONTON (10* PERS FAV). Off four straight losses, we're playing on an absolutely desperate Oiler team. The first three of those losses were on the road and the latest loss was their first game back home, after a trip east. The Oilers have no more 'excuses' though. They've been home for a few days, they're rested and they don't play again for a few more days. Their full focus is going to be on winning this game and we'll get their very best effort. Expect the highly capable Oiler offense to come back to life against a Montreal team which has allowed 15 goals in its past three games alone. The Oilers swept the Habs last season, winning the two games by a combined score of 10-3. They were laying -180 for the game here at Edmonton. We're getting them at a far more reasonable price tonight and I feel that they're providing excellent value.