posted March 2, 2007 at 19:44 EST in NHL Free Picks

Game One:

The Oilers, and their poor fans, are still weeping after the Ryan Smyth trade. With another episode of “The Battle for Alberta” airing this weekend, the Oilers will need to pull up their socks, wipe their tears away and gear up for a physical contest against the rival Flames.

Calgary is favored on the road, because the Oilers are in complete disarray right now. They have posted one goal in their last three games. The Flames are riding a three game win streak, including a huge 7-4 victory over San Jose last week.

The safe bet here is Calgary. Edmonton’s penalty-killing was dependent on Smyth’s steady play. Look for Calgary to, simply, beat the piss out of a shattered Edmonton team as Calgary plays catch-up in the Northwest.

Calgary Flames (34-21-9) vs. Edmonton Oilers (30-29-6)

Saturday, March 3rd --- Rexall Place, Edmonton --- 10:00pm EST

Free Pick: Calgary 4 Edmonton 1

Result:

 

Game Two:

Colorado Avalanche (31-29-5) vs. Detroit Red Wings (40-16-8)

Sunday, March 4th --- Joe Louis Arena, Detroit --- 12:30pm EST

This once heated rivalry shines again on Sunday in the hallowed halls of Joe Louis Arena. The Wings suffered a major blow as Henrik Zetterberg will be held out of the line-up for the next three weeks. Can the Avs capitalize and score a victory over a familiar enemy?

Detroit was able to spank Chicago 4-1 on Tuesday, but the Avalanche will be a different story. Joe Sakic knows that the playoffs are out of reach, and will be playing for respect through March. Sakic is one of the best on-ice leaders in the game, and the team will certainly rally behind him.

The Wings are still an incredibly strong and deep team despite Zetterberg’s injury. They are favored to win, but will receive some stiff competition from the Avalanche, who always step it up a notch against Detroit.

Expect the Wings to win, but the Avalanche will push hard to keep the score on the puckline.

 

Free Pick: Colorado 3 Detroit 4

Result:

Last Week: 4-0

This Season: 23-14

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