Stanley Cup Shifts back to Detroit - Game 5 Pick

Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin made sure that history wouldn’t repeat itself in dramatic fashion as the Penguins vanquished the Wings in back-to-back games to even this epic Stanley Cup series. Malkin and Crosby combined for four points combined, while getting backup from their supporting cast as expected. Jordan Staal scored a shorthanded goal to put the momentum permanently in Pittsburgh’s hands for the rest of the game.

Now the series swings back to Detroit, and the only thing NHL betting fans want to know is whether or not this is a home ice series. Detroit is undefeated in their last 5 games. The home team has won every game in this series by two goals. If I had known to swing heavy with the puckline, I would have told you to do so, but I’m still a moneyline guy when it comes to hockey. Especially when the two teams are this good.

Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Detroit Red Wings

Saturday, June 6th --- Joe Louis Arena, Detroit --- 8:00pm EST

NHL Betting Line: Detroit -155 / Pittsburgh +135

Detroit was handled like they’ve never been handled in Game 4. When a guy like Zetterberg gets stripped of the puck only to watch the Pens play tic-tac-toe in to his own net, then you know that there’s trouble. While Osgood is a veteran goal tender, I’ve been harping that he’s been losing his legs for the past couple seasons.

And that’s why the Wings will have to come out swinging in Game 5 to get the edge back in this game. They know now, more than ever, that they have to protect Chris Osgood. While the spotlight is on the bright birds in Pittsburgh, nobody should fall asleep on a veteran team like Detroit, especially if Pavel Datsyuk is expected to play. This is becoming a home team series, so bet wisely.

NHL Furious Free Pick: Detroit -155