posted April 18, 2008 at 17:06 EST in NHL Free Picks

Nashville Predators (41-32-9) vs. Detroit Red Wings (54-21-7)

Friday, April 18th --- Joe Louis Arena, Detroit --- 7:30pm EST

Series Record: Tied 2-2

NHL Betting Line: Detroit -270

The line seems steep considering that Nashville just upset the Wings in their house. But when you realize that Detroit is 5-0 SU in their last five games at home, and are reminded that they hardly lose in Joe Louis anyways, it’s hard to split your money elsewhere. This is the one time I will tell you to bet the puckline because to profit on the moneyline, you have to front too much coin.

Detroit is a solid bet at home anytime, and Nashville is a horrific road team. They are 1-4 SU in their last five road games. On top of that they’re 1-9 SU in their last 10 games when playing in Joe Louis Arena. Home may be sweet for the Predators and their betting faithful. But the road is a scary place for the Predators. Especially if they’re trying to handle the best team in the NHL (they are – shut up, San Jose fans).

Detroit won by two points in the first two games of the series, and that is a trend that you can expect to continue. Babcock probably has one of those “they don’t’ come in to our house!” speeches lined up for tonight. Not that he’ll need it. The Wings know where they stand, and Hasek won’t let this game be close.

NHL Free Picks: Detroit 1.5 (UNDER)

Dallas Stars (45-30-7) vs. Anaheim Ducks (47-27-8)

Friday, April 18th --- Honda Center, Anaheim --- 10:30pm EST

Series Record: Dal 3-1

NHL Betting Line: Anaheim -150

I am so sick of this series. And yes I’m mad because I haven’t picked any of these games correctly. But I’m also angrified by Dallas, a team that shouldn’t be this good. By the way, I’m fully aware that “angrified” is not a word, but I’m in a confused state right now.

Who knew that a team barreling in to the playoffs, bearing the “defending champions” title, and boasting solid playmakers and veterans would cake like this? Not me, that’s for damn sure. For all their gumption and aggressiveness, Dallas is the one team that Anaheim can’t figure out. And that’s apparent since they’re only 49 SU in their last 13 games when dueling Dallas. To make matters worse, Anaheim is 2-4 SU in their last 6 home stands against the Stars.

I’m going to call Dallas, even though my instincts tell me Anaheim guts out a win. I’m trying some reverse psychology here, but I’ll also be dead honest here: I have no idea what’s going on this series. And that’s my professional opinion.

NHL Free Picks: Dallas +130 (OVER)

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