posted May 23, 2008 at 17:49 in NHL Free Picks

Pittsburgh Penguins (47-27-8) vs. Detroit Red Wings (54-21-7)

Saturday, May 24th --- Joe Louis Arena, Detroit --- 8:00pm EST

NHL Betting Line: Detroit -170

Detroit beats Pittsburgh in every important statistical category, and they’re the Wings for goodness’ sakes. It’s no wonder that they’re the home sports betting favorites Saturday night as we open the Stanley Cup finals. Truth is – they should be.

So what’s with the title? Because I believe in Pittsburgh. I believe in Sidney, Evgeni, Hossa and Jordan Staal. I believe that they are a better team than Detroit, despite the numbers. Detroit’s 10-2 SU in their last 12 games. Pittsburgh? 12-2 SU in their last 14.

Say what you will about “veteran leadership” and “experience” to argue for Detroit’s case. But Pittsburgh isn’t short of its veterans and don’t forget they have Mario Lemieux sitting in the box preaching to his players the importance of getting over the hump. It’s in the air. I can feel it.

I’m not going to yell at you if you take Detroit, because the numbers speak for themselves. But Pittsburgh is three lines deep with better goal tending. I guarantee they snap Chris Osgood in half on Saturday. After he’s broken, Detroit’s Stanley Cup dreams are shattered in a moment.

Bet on who you’d like. But believe in Pittsburgh.

NHL Furious Free Picks: Pittsburgh +150 (OVER)

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