Tuesday 10-17-17 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Columbus at Winnipeg

W/L TRENDS

Columbus

Blue Jackets are 15-3 in their last 18 games playing on 2 days rest. Blue Jackets are 4-1 in their last 5 overall. Blue Jackets are 16-5 in their last 21 Tuesday games. Blue Jackets are 5-2 in their last 7 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Blue Jackets are 2-5 in their last 7 vs. Central. Blue Jackets are 4-10 in their last 14 vs. a team with a winning record. Blue Jackets are 3-9 in their last 12 road games. Blue Jackets are 2-6 in their last 8 vs. Western Conference. Blue Jackets are 2-8 in their last 10 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Winnipeg

Jets are 5-0 in their last 5 vs. Metropolitan. Jets are 10-1 in their last 11 games following a win. Jets are 7-1 in their last 8 home games. Jets are 6-1 in their last 7 vs. Eastern Conference. Jets are 5-1 in their last 6 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Jets are 10-2 in their last 12 overall. Jets are 4-1 in their last 5 games playing on 2 days rest. Jets are 50-109 in their last 159 vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Jets are 3-9 in their last 12 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Jets are 5-16 in their last 21 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.

OU TRENDS

Columbus

Under is 4-0 in Blue Jackets last 4 games playing on 2 days rest. Under is 6-1 in Blue Jackets last 7 Tuesday games. Over is 7-2-1 in Blue Jackets last 10 vs. Central. Under is 6-2 in Blue Jackets last 8 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 5-2 in Blue Jackets last 7 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 5-2 in Blue Jackets last 7 vs. a team with a winning record. Under is 9-4-1 in Blue Jackets last 14 road games. Under is 20-9-1 in Blue Jackets last 30 vs. Western Conference.

Winnipeg

Over is 4-0 in Jets last 4 games playing on 2 days rest. Over is 9-1 in Jets last 10 Tuesday games. Over is 4-1 in Jets last 5 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600. Over is 4-1 in Jets last 5 vs. Eastern Conference. Over is 16-4-1 in Jets last 21 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 7-2 in Jets last 9 games following a win. Over is 17-5-2 in Jets last 24 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 19-7-2 in Jets last 28 vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Over is 11-5-3 in Jets last 19 vs. Metropolitan. Over is 34-16-3 in Jets last 53 overall.

HEAD TO HEAD

Over is 5-2-1 in the last 8 meetings. Blue Jackets are 5-2 in the last 7 meetings in Winnipeg. Road team is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings. Blue Jackets are 1-5 in the last 6 meetings.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When:8:00 PM ET, Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Where:Bridgestone Arena, Nashville, Tennessee

Preview: Avalanche at Predators

Gracenote
Oct 16, 2017

The Nashville Predators are starting to show glimpses of the club that reached the 2017 Stanley Cup Final as they try for their seventh straight victory over the visiting Colorado Avalanche on Tuesday. Nashville has recovered from an 0-2-0 start by going 2-0-1 in its last three games following Saturday's 2-1 overtime loss at Chicago on Saturday.

"Certainly trending in the right direction," the Predators' Colton Sissons told reporters. "A lot of work to do, but we're definitely feeling better about ourselves and we can continue to build off the way we did (Saturday)." Colorado is coming off a 3-1 loss at Dallas on Saturday in which a lackluster first two periods left it trailing 2-0. "It's a good learning lesson for this group," Avalanche coach Jared Bednar told reporters. "It's a different group than last year, but now it is the first time we've realized that we didn't leave it all on the line for 60 minutes, and that's something we need to do every night." Matt Duchene, who wants to be traded, is improving his value with a renewed work ethic and by sharing the team lead in goals (three) with Sven Andrighetto and Nail Yakupov, and points (six) with Andrighetto while posting a plus-5 rating.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, Altitude (Colorado), FSN Tennessee (Nashville)

ABOUT THE AVALANCHE (4-2-0): Rookie Tyson Jost practiced Monday wearing a normal jersey, meaning he could return Tuesday after missing two games because of a knee injury. Defenseman Tyson Barrie, who slumped to seven goals and a minus-34 rating last season, has recorded two tallies - both game-winners - three assists and a plus-1 this campaign. Nathan MacKinnon (four assists this season) played Saturday - a day after leaving a 3-1 victory over Anaheim in the first period, when he took an errant stick in the eye.

ABOUT THE PREDATORS (2-2-1): Nashville has been thin defensively as Ryan Ellis (knee) probably is out until around Christmas while Yannick Weber and Roman Josi have not been in the lineup. Josi practiced Monday after missing the last three games with a lower-body injury while Weber (upper body) did not play against Chicago or participate in Monday's practice. Filip Forsberg is off to a fast start with a team-leading five goals while Scott Hartnell has recorded three in his first season back with the Predators after spending the first six years of his career with them but is a minus-4.

OVERTIME

1. Yakupov, the first overall pick in the 2012 draft by Edmonton, scored three goals in 40 games with St. Louis last season.

2. Nashville is 5-for-11 on the power play in its last three games and was 6-for-6 on the penalty kill versus the Blackhawks.

3. Duchene, the third overall pick in the 2009 draft behind John Tavares and Victor Hedman, is minus-56 for his career after going minus-34 last season.

PREDICTION: Predators 3, Avalanche 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Colorado at Nashville

W/L TRENDS

Colorado

Avalanche are 17-35 in their last 52 Tuesday games. Avalanche are 15-36 in their last 51 vs. Central. Avalanche are 15-37 in their last 52 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Avalanche are 15-38 in their last 53 vs. a team with a losing record. Avalanche are 14-37 in their last 51 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Avalanche are 15-40 in their last 55 road games. Avalanche are 14-39 in their last 53 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Avalanche are 2-6 in their last 8 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. Avalanche are 17-53 in their last 70 overall. Avalanche are 3-12 in their last 15 games playing on 2 days rest. Avalanche are 11-46 in their last 57 vs. Western Conference.

Nashville

Predators are 9-3 in their last 12 vs. Central. Predators are 20-7 in their last 27 vs. Western Conference. Predators are 11-5 in their last 16 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Predators are 19-9 in their last 28 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Predators are 39-19 in their last 58 home games. Predators are 2-5 in their last 7 overall. Predators are 2-5 in their last 7 vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Predators are 0-4 in their last 4 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game.

OU TRENDS

Colorado

Over is 6-1 in Avalanche last 7 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 4-1 in Avalanche last 5 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 6-2-1 in Avalanche last 9 games playing on 2 days rest. Under is 3-1-1 in Avalanche last 5 overall. Under is 6-2-1 in Avalanche last 9 vs. a team with a losing record. Under is 3-1-1 in Avalanche last 5 road games. Over is 10-4 in Avalanche last 14 vs. Central.

Nashville

Under is 9-2-5 in Predators last 16 vs. Central. Under is 4-1 in Predators last 5 Tuesday games. Under is 8-2-3 in Predators last 13 vs. Western Conference. Under is 10-3-3 in Predators last 16 home games. Under is 10-4-2 in Predators last 16 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 9-4-6 in Predators last 19 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 11-5-1 in Predators last 17 vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Over is 15-7-3 in Predators last 25 games playing on 2 days rest. Under is 19-9-7 in Predators last 35 overall.

HEAD TO HEAD

Over is 8-1 in the last 9 meetings. Over is 12-3-1 in the last 16 meetings in Nashville. Avalanche are 4-12 in the last 16 meetings in Nashville. Avalanche are 0-6 in the last 6 meetings.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When:8:30 PM ET, Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Where:American Airlines Center, Dallas, Texas

Preview: Coyotes at Stars

Gracenote
Oct 16, 2017

The Arizona Coyotes have two objectives when they visit the Dallas Stars on Tuesday for the opener of a home-and-home series -- record their first victory of the season and break a streak that has seen them score only two goals in three consecutive games. Arizona has earned only one point over its first five contests, netting fewer than three tallies each time out after dropping a 5-4 decision at Anaheim in its season opener.

Rookie Clayton Keller, a 19-year-old center who was selected seventh overall in the 2016 draft, has recorded a team-high three goals but was kept off the scoresheet Saturday as the Coyotes were trounced 6-2 at home by Boston. Dallas has won two straight at home after being edged 2-1 by Vegas in the season opener at American Airlines Center. Tyler Seguin and captain Jamie Benn each registered a goal and an assist Saturday as the Stars posted a 3-1 victory over visiting Colorado. Both players doubled their point total for the season, climbing within one of defenseman John Klingberg (five) for the team lead.

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, FSN Arizona, FSN Southwest (Dallas)

ABOUT THE COYOTES (0-4-1): Mario Kempe, who is in his first season in the NHL, was credited with his first goal Saturday after it originally was given to Anthony Duclair but wasn't all that thrilled. "Honestly, I didn't even know it hit me first," the 29-year-old Swedish right wing told reporters. "That's what they said on the replay, that it hit my stick. I don't really care. That's a personal milestone. For me, I just want to get a win right now." Oliver Ekman-Larsson scored his 41st career power-play goal in the loss to Boston to overtake Fredrik Olausson for first place on the franchise list among defensemen.

ABOUT THE STARS (2-3-0): Saturday's victory was the 783rd of Ken Hitchcock's coaching career, moving him ahead of Al Arbour for third place on the all-time list. Hitchcock, who also has been behind the bench for St. Louis (248), Philadelphia (131) and Columbus (125), has earned the majority of his wins (279) with the Stars. Defenseman Dan Hamhuis returned to the lineup against Colorado after missing two games with a groin injury and logged 19 minutes, 16 seconds of ice time.

OVERTIME

1. Each of Seguin's team-leading three goals have come on the power play, with Saturday's serving as the game-winner.

2. Ekman-Larsson's next game will be the 500th of his NHL career.

3. Dallas has scored a power-play goal in each of its five contests and was seventh in the league entering Monday with a 27.8 percent success rate.

PREDICTION: Stars 4, Coyotes 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Arizona at Dallas

W/L TRENDS

Arizona

Coyotes are 22-45 in their last 67 overall. Coyotes are 42-89 in their last 131 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Coyotes are 17-36 in their last 53 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Coyotes are 18-38 in their last 56 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. Coyotes are 16-35 in their last 51 Tuesday games. Coyotes are 49-112 in their last 161 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Coyotes are 17-40 in their last 57 games following a loss of 3 or more goals. Coyotes are 17-42 in their last 59 vs. Western Conference. Coyotes are 2-5 in their last 7 games playing on 2 days rest. Coyotes are 14-47 in their last 61 road games. Coyotes are 17-59 in their last 76 vs. Central. Coyotes are 1-4 in their last 5 games following a home loss of 3 or more goals.

Dallas

Stars are 4-1 in their last 5 vs. a team with a winning % below .400. Stars are 6-2 in their last 8 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Stars are 6-2 in their last 8 home games. Stars are 222-103-25 in their last 350 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400. Stars are 17-36 in their last 53 games following a win. Stars are 7-16 in their last 23 vs. Western Conference. Stars are 12-30 in their last 42 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Stars are 3-8 in their last 11 games playing on 2 days rest. Stars are 0-4 in their last 4 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game.

OU TRENDS

Arizona

Under is 7-0 in Coyotes last 7 vs. Central. Over is 4-0 in Coyotes last 4 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 5-1-1 in Coyotes last 7 following a home loss of 3 or more goals. Under is 38-8-5 in Coyotes last 51 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 4-1 in Coyotes last 5 overall. Over is 7-2 in Coyotes last 9 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 3-1-1 in Coyotes last 5 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. Under is 9-3-1 in Coyotes last 13 vs. Western Conference. Under is 5-2 in Coyotes last 7 road games.

Dallas

Under is 4-0 in Stars last 4 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 7-1 in Stars last 8 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400. Under is 4-1 in Stars last 5 games playing on 2 days rest. Under is 4-1 in Stars last 5 vs. Pacific. Over is 19-7 in Stars last 26 home games. Under is 5-2 in Stars last 7 games following a win. Under is 5-2 in Stars last 7 vs. a team with a winning % below .400.

HEAD TO HEAD

Under is 18-7-1 in the last 26 meetings. Home team is 20-8 in the last 28 meetings. Coyotes are 1-10 in the last 11 meetings in Dallas. Coyotes are 0-4 in the last 4 meetings.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA Southwest betting preview and odds: Can new-look Rockets dethrone Spurs?
Matt Fargo

Chris Paul is teaming up with James Harden in Houston with hopes of knocking Golden State from its throne, but the Rockets can't overlook the Spurs, who have won 50-plus games in 18 straight seasons and the division title in six of the last seven years.

Houston Rockets (2016-17: 55-27 SU, 42-40 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: -120
Season Win Total: Over 55.5 -132/Under 55.5 +113

Why TO bet the Rockets: James Harden carried his team to 55 wins last season, up from 41 wins the season before when he was paired with Dwight Howard, and now he gets a huge upgrade with the addition of Chris Paul. The Rockets were ranked No. 2 in scoring offense so they could run with anyone but they finished No. 26 in scoring defense. Houston picked up P.J. Tucker and Luc Mbah A Moute to help shore up that defense so if all the parts gel, this is a team to contend with the Warriors.

Why NOT to bet the Rockets: The addition of Paul adds another star to the team but as effective as the offense was last season, he cannot just be inserted and expect it to get better. The Rockets relied on threes and dunks but Paul is a mid-range player so the offense will have to be adjusted to fit around the parts. That could be a problem on both ends of the floor so early on, Houston could struggle. While the Rockets got better with key additions, the Western Conference got better as a whole as well.

Season Win Total Pick: Over 55.5 -132

San Antonio Spurs (2016-17: 61-21 SU, 41-39-2 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +130
Season Win Total: Over 54.5 -130/Under 54.5 +110

Why TO bet the Spurs: Year in and year out, the Spurs are the best coached team in the NBA and Greg Popovich brings the best out of his team in his system. After winning 61 games last season, the Spurs did not do much in the offseason but it was not necessary as they were No. 2 in the West last year. San Antonio signed Rudy Gay to add some solid depth off the bench and I still possesses one of the most underrated players in the NBA in Kawhi Leonard and it showed after he went down in the playoffs.

Why NOT to bet the Spurs: Even though we say it every year and it backfires, San Antonio is not getting any younger. Tony Parker is hurt, Manu Ginobili is coming back for his 16th season and Pau Gasol is 37. As we saw in the playoffs, the Spurs are a Leonard injury away of calling it a season as there is no one on the roster that can carry this team. That includes LaMarcus Aldridge who has averaged 17.6 ppg in two seasons after averaging over 22 ppg in his last five seasons in Portland.

Season Win Total Pick: Under 54.5 +110

New Orleans Pelicans (2016-17: 34-48 SU, 39-42-1 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +1400
Season Win Total: Over 39.5 -112/Under 39.5 -104

Why TO bet the Pelicans: The experiment to have Anthony Davis coexist with DeMarcus Cousins failed to get the Pelicans into the playoffs nut they were together for only 25 games last season. Now together for a full season, the potential is there to be one of the best frontcourts we have ever seen. Couple that with the resigning of Jrue Holiday and the signing of Rajon Rondo, and this is a legitimate playoff contender. New Orleans is in the weakest division of the Western Conference which does not hurt.

Why NOT to bet the Pelicans: While 25 games is not a big sample size, it is big enough to show that the two big guys might not be able to work together. They will both stuff the boxscore but individual performances will not help as working together to be more efficient goes a long way. Holiday is being moved to the two-spot to make room for Rondo so that could take time. There is very little depth coming off the bench so Alvin Gentry could have his hands full in saving his job.

Season Win Total Pick: Over 39.5 -112

Memphis Grizzlies (2016-17: 43-39 SU, 41-41 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +2000
Season Win Total: Over 37.5 -124/Under 37.5 +106

Why TO bet the Grizzlies: The core of the Grizzlies has been together for a while now so there is no learning curve like a lot of other teams in the Western Conference have to endure. Memphis did lose Zack Randolph and Tony Allen but there is not a big dropoff especially if Chandler Parsons can stay healthy. He was a huge disappointment as he played just 34 games and averaged only 6.2 ppg because of a knee injury. If he gets back to his Rockets/Mavericks form, it will be huge for the Grizzlies.

Why NOT to bet Grizzlies: While the core is still in place, Memphis will be playing faster this season as their old system of being a slower paced team does not work in this conference. This could take time to come together. Going faster also means their defense will be hurt which was a No. 7 unit last season. The Grizzlies made no big free agent signings in the off season to close the gap and come February, they could be once again fighting for a bottom seed in the playoffs.

Season Win Total Pick: Under 37.5 +106

Dallas Mavericks (2016-17: 33-49 SU, 43-38-1 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +5000
Season Win Total: Over 35.5 Even/Under 35.5 -117

Why TO bet the Mavericks: This is a team in transition and as is the case with a lot of teams like this, there is value to be had as people are already writing them off. The Mavericks had the sixth worst record in the Western Conference but the third best record against the number which proves that. Harrison Barnes, Wes Matthews and Seth Curry form a nice nucleus and rookie Dennis Smith Jr. is expected to be the real deal. Dirk Nowitzki is back and while he is on the decline, he can still be clutch.

Why NOT to bet the Mavericks: Nowitzki is no longer the dominant player he used to be and the Mavericks are coming off their worst season in 17 years so things are not looking good for this once proud franchise. The Mavericks will be relying on a rookie to lead the team at the point and if Smith cannot adjust quickly, it will be a long season. Dallas resigned center Nerlens Noel and while he is a solid defender, his offense is not where it needs to be. A lot of questions surround the Mavericks.

Season Win Total Pick: Over 35.5 Even

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA Southeast betting preview and odds: Nobody beats the Wiz

There might not be a better collection of mismanaged teams in the Association than four of the five teams residing in the Southeast Division.

Atlanta Hawks (2016-17: 43-39 SU, 39-43 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +1200
Season Win Total: 25.5

Why to bet the Hawks: Well, they are going to be underdogs - at least. No team is projected to take a bigger step back than the Hawks this season. This team won 43 games a year ago, fifth most in the Eastern Conference and it was just three seasons ago when it won 60 games and finished with the best regular season record in the East.
This team has made the playoffs for 10 consecutive years. There probably is a bit of value in betting the Over on the season win total simply due to the size of the projected decline.

Why not to bet the Hawks: Dennis Schroder is their best player - by a wide margin. The playoff streak is a virtual lock to end as the team is significantly weaker on paper and every other team in the division is improved. Keep in mind that last year's team was actually outscored and this year's group will not match the 5-0 overtime record from a year ago. Atlanta isn't the worst team in the East, but the team is closer to the bottom than the playoffs.

Season Win Total Pick: Over 25.5

Charlotte Hornets (2016-17: 36-46 SU, 35-44-3 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +650
Season Win Total: 42.5

Why to bet the Hornets: This team is on my short list for most improved. Last year's record fails to reflect a lot of poor luck, namely a horrendous 0-9 straight up record in games decided by three points or fewer (were also 0-6 in OT!).

They actually outscored opponents over the course of the season and ranked in the top 10 defensively most of the way. A simple progression to the mean would have probably been enough to push the Hornets into the playoffs. But the roster looks to be improved as well. Well, that's if Dwight Howard has his head on straight. Nic Batum and Cody Zeller also need to be healthy.

Why not to bet the Hornets: Reportedly, Atlanta Hawks' players openly cheered upon learning of Howard's trade here. Batum got injured in the preseason and will be out 6-8 weeks, though the team got good news when it was learned surgery would not be required to repair the elbow ligament.

The Hornets were terrible with Zeller off the floor last year. Their net rating fell from +5.5 to -3.6 and he missed 20 games due to injury. It was a similar story when Kemba Walker didn't play or was on the bench. This is not a deep team.

Season Win Total Pick: Over 42.5

Miami Heat (2016-17: 41-41 SU, 48-33-1 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +600
Season Win Total: 43.5

Why to bet the Heat: Like Charlotte, this was a non-playoff team that was actually better than some of the actual playoff teams. The Heat's points per game differential (+1.1) was fifth best in the East. They appeared to be dead in the water after starting the season 11-30, but they finished 30-11 over the second half.

Why not to bet the Heat: Can Goran Dragic, Dion Waiters and James Johnson all repeat career years? Probably not. A better question would be will any of them repeat the career years? That's not guaranteed. On a game by game basis, you're unlikely to get the Heat as well-priced as they were last year, which enabled them to finish near the top of the league's ATS (48-33-1) standings.

Season Win Total Pick: Over 43.5

Orlando Magic (2016-17: 29-53 SU, 39-42-1 ATS)

Odds To Win the Division: +1000
Season Win Total: 33.5

Why to bet the Magic: This moribund franchise has to make some sort of leap sooner or later, right? Right?

In all seriousness, this should be the best Magic team in years. With all the lottery picks in recent years, there's some decent talent on hand, even if it's all young. Frank Vogel is a good coach that preaches defense and if the Magic improve in that area, they'll be able to stay in a lot of games and cash routinely as underdogs.

Why not to bet the Magic: When Elfrid Payton and Aaron Gordon are your best players, there are still question marks. This team was outscored last year by a number similar to 20-game winner Brooklyn. There's a new front office, so that means some of the players they inherited could be dealt. Last year, the Magic ranked 24th in points per possession and 29th in points allowed.

Washington Wizards (2016-17: 49-33 SU, 42-39-1 ATS)

Odds to Win The Division: -125
Season Win Total: 47.5

Why to bet the Wizards: As indicated by the odds, this is a heavy favorite to repeat at Southeast Division champs. The nucleus from last year's 49-win team is back. Bradley Beal and John Wall form one of the league's best backcourts. Otto Porter, Markieff Morris and Marcin Gortat make it a strong starting five overall. They look like a 50-win team on paper.

Odds to Win The Division: -125
Season Win Total: 47.5

Why to bet the Wizards: As indicated by the odds, this is a heavy favorite to repeat at Southeast Division champs. The nucleus from last year's 49-win team is back. Bradley Beal and John Wall form one of the league's best backcourts. Otto Porter, Markieff Morris and Marcin Gortat make it a strong starting five overall. They look like a 50-win team on paper.

Why not to bet the Wizards: Can they improve again after jumping from 41 to 49 wins a year ago? An injury to Wall or Beal, particularly the former, would be devastating. While the Wiz did clean up against losing teams (27-9 SU record), they went just 22-24 SU against foes that were .500 or better. They had one of the worst bench units in the league a year ago and haven’t done anything to address the problem.

Season Win Total: Over 47.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA Atlantic betting preview and odds: Celtics' division to lose
Steve Merril

There are plenty of storylines in the NBA's Atlantic division with the retooled Boston Celtics expected to dominate at the top of the standings. Other than the C's the Raptors are possibly a team in transition, the 76ers are trending up, and the Nets and Knicks are...well...the Nets and Knicks.

Boston Celtics (2016-17: 53-29 SU; 40-40-2 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: -500
Season Win Total: 53.5

Why to Bet On The Celtics: The addition of Kyrie Irving makes their starting lineup top notch. Irving will pair nicely with Gordon Hayward who does more then just score. The team has solid depth all over, and players who fill their role nicely, including rookie Jayson Tatum who could be the best player from this draft class. Al Horford bangs down low, but also has some ability from the outside. To top it off, Brad Stevens is one of the best coaches in the league.

Why not bet the Celtics: The team could take some time to gel with so many new pieces. They are also relatively undersized inside with Horford and Aron Baynes being their tallest players. Interior defense is suspect without a good rim protector down low. Boston is also a young team overall.

Season Win Total Pick: Over 53.5

Brooklyn Nets (2016-17: 20-62 SU; 41-38-3 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +17500
Season Win Total: 27.5

Why to Bet On The Nets: The additions of D'Angelo Russell and Allen Crabbe make the backcourt passable in the NBA. This team tried hard last year at times, despite a talent difference with most of their opponents. Kenny Atkinson will get the best out of his squad. There are some other options in Jeremy Lin, Timofey Mozgov and DeMarre Carroll.

Why Not to Bet On The Nets: There are no go-to scoring option on this team and no one to stop long runs by their opponents. The squad is pretty awful defensively, yet they aren't capable of winning a lot of high scoring affairs. The frontcourt is bad and doesn't have a ton of size either. The lack of high draft picks the past few seasons is going to hurt this roster's future. They'll have to hope they get some help from their free agent acquisitions.

Season Win Total Pick: Under 27.5

New York Knicks (2016-17: 31-51 SU; 42-40 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +8500
Season Win Total: 30

Why to Bet On The Knicks: Carmelo Anthony is gone and that means more sharing of the ball on offense. It also means that Kristaps Porzingis is the go-to guy and he should be able to handle it. With the Zinger and Enes Kanter up front, you've got size and scoring from the forward and center positions. For the money they paid Tim Hardaway Jr, the former Michigan star is going to be a big part of the offense.

Why Not to Bet On The Knicks: Carmelo Anthony averaged 22.4 points per game. Frank Ntilikina has got a solid future in this league, but being a point guard for this team is asking a lot. At least Derrick Rose last year was able to run the offense when he was healthy. There is just not a lot of star power in New York and few consistent scorers. Defense will be an issue as well.

Season Win Total Pick: Over 30

Philadelphia 76ers (2016-17: 28-54 SU; 49-33 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +1000
Season Win Total: 39.5

Why to Bet On The Sixers: Joel Embiid is a megastar in the making and he's supposedly healthy entering this season. The center has a long range shot and is the juice and electricity for this roster. Ben Simmons provides excitement at the guard position and has become tough to stop when driving the ball to the rim. Robert Covington is an underrated defender, while JJ Redick is the long-range shooter that this team has desperately needed.

Why Not to Bet On The Sixers: It's not going to be easy integrating all these new pieces and there will be growing pains with such a young roster. Markelle Fultz looked lost at times during the preseason and may not be able to help right away. Embiid will probably sit out back-to-back games and that makes the team weaker. We'll also find out if Brett Brown is a good coach. So far, he's put up bad numbers with bad rosters. He now has a group that has playoff potential. Can he get them there?

Season Win Total Pick: Under 39.5

Toronto Raptors (2016-17: 51-31 SU; 45-36-1 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +500
Season Win Total: 48.5

Why to Bet On The Raptors: Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan are one of the best duos in the league as they averaged nearly 50 points per game last season. Serge Ibaka is a perfect complement as he provides long range shooting. Jonas Valanciunas has solid size inside and can only get better. CJ Miles is underrated and put up 10.7 ppg last year.

Why Not to Bet On The Raptors: Beyond the starting lineup, there's not much depth. They probably needed to split up Lowry or DeRozan as this roster just doesn't have enough in the Eastern Conference to get past Cleveland or Boston now. Toronto needs to share the ball more and get more players tallying assists. It has become routine for Toronto to make the playoffs, but then bow out against a better opponent.

Season Win Total Pick: Under 48.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When:7:00 PM ET, Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Where:Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Preview: Panthers at Flyers

Gracenote
Oct 17, 2017

While Hall of Famer Allen Iverson was long considered "The Answer" in basketball circles, that same nickname has been resurrected on the ice in Philadelphia. Jakub Voracek and captain Claude Giroux have presented new linemate Sean Couturier with that moniker for the Flyers, who play the second contest of a five-game homestand versus the Florida Panthers.

"(Couturier is) a very responsible guy on both sides of the puck, and it shows," Voracek told Philly.com after Monday's practice. "He creates more space for me and 'G' on offense. It feels like he always has the answer for whatever we say. We call him 'The Answer.'" The trio has been right on the money with 22 points (six goals, 16 assists), including Giroux's two-goal, two-assist performance on Saturday as Philadelphia erupted for its highest goal output in a regular-season game in six years with an 8-2 shellacking of Washington. The Flyers are scoring 4.20 goals per game this season but will need to contend with Roberto Luongo, who is one win away from passing Curtis Joseph (454) and moving into fourth place on the NHL's all-time list. "It's nice to be mentioned in the same sentence with guys like that and I'll probably look back on it at some point," the 38-year-old Luongo said. "But right now I'm just trying to win games for this hockey team."
TV: 7 p.m. ET, NHL.TV, FSN Florida, NBCSN Philadelphia

ABOUT THE PANTHERS (2-2-0): Jonathan Huberdeau scored twice and increased his team co-leading point total to five (three goals, two assists) in Saturday's 4-3 setback to Pittsburgh. "We had a lot of chances. We missed some chances too," Huberdeau said. "I think it could've gone either way, but it happens. We just have to go to the next one." Huberdeau and Vincent Trocheck are each riding four-game point streaks while Evgenii Dadonov set up a pair of goals versus the Penguins, raising his team-leading assist total to four.
ABOUT THE FLYERS (3-2-0): Giroux has made a seamless transition from shifting from right to left wing on the new line. "When you're playing the wing, you're trying to make them lose you and trying to find the open ice," said the 29-year-old Giroux, who has three goals and four assists this season. "Jake and Coots are good at holding onto the puck, so it gives me time to get open." Giroux notched a pair of assists versus Florida last season and Voracek (team-leading nine assists) scored and set up a goal, but Couturier (three goals, three assists, plus-8) was held off the scoresheet against the Panthers.

OVERTIME

1. Philadelphia won all three encounters versus Florida in 2016-17.

2. Panthers C Nick Bjugstad, who has two multi-point performances this season, was held off the scoresheet in all three games versus the Flyers in 2016-17.

3. Philadelphia D Shayne Gostisbehere, who is a Florida native, has five assists in his last two contests.

PREDICTION: Flyers 3, Panthers 1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Florida at Philadelphia

W/L TRENDS

Florida

Panthers are 9-19 in their last 28 overall. Panthers are 59-127-3 in their last 189 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. Panthers are 5-11 in their last 16 Tuesday games. Panthers are 4-9 in their last 13 games playing on 2 days rest. Panthers are 4-10 in their last 14 vs. a team with a winning record. Panthers are 2-6 in their last 8 vs. Metropolitan. Panthers are 3-9 in their last 12 vs. Eastern Conference. Panthers are 1-7 in their last 8 road games.

Philadelphia

Flyers are 7-1 in their last 8 home games. Flyers are 4-1 in their last 5 games playing on 2 days rest. Flyers are 10-4 in their last 14 vs. Atlantic. Flyers are 5-2 in their last 7 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game. Flyers are 0-4 in their last 4 games following a win.

OU TRENDS

Florida

Over is 4-0 in Panthers last 4 games playing on 2 days rest. Over is 4-0 in Panthers last 4 overall. Under is 3-0-1 in Panthers last 4 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. Over is 4-1 in Panthers last 5 road games. Under is 7-2-1 in Panthers last 10 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 5-2 in Panthers last 7 vs. a team with a winning record. Over is 7-3 in Panthers last 10 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 27-13-12 in Panthers last 52 Tuesday games.

Philadelphia

Over is 4-0 in Flyers last 4 games playing on 2 days rest. Over is 5-1 in Flyers last 6 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 4-1 in Flyers last 5 home games. Over is 4-1 in Flyers last 5 vs. Eastern Conference. Under is 18-6-4 in Flyers last 28 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game. Under is 8-3-2 in Flyers last 13 Tuesday games. Over is 5-2 in Flyers last 7 overall. Under is 5-2 in Flyers last 7 vs. Atlantic. Over is 11-5-4 in Flyers last 20 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.

HEAD TO HEAD

Home team is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings. Under is 12-3-2 in the last 17 meetings in Philadelphia. Under is 6-2-1 in the last 9 meetings. Panthers are 1-4 in the last 5 meetings. Panthers are 1-5 in the last 6 meetings in Philadelphia.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When:7:30 PM ET, Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Where:Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey

Preview: Lightning at Devils

Gracenote
Oct 17, 2017

The New Jersey Devils rebounded from their first loss of the season by earning a victory over a big rival and look to build another winning streak when they host the equally hot Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday. The Devils suffered a 5-2 defeat against visiting Washington on Friday and were outshot 14-3 in the first period one day later before recording a 3-2 road triumph over the New York Rangers.

“I think we just had to re-evaluate what kind of team we were and what we were doing out there,” New Jersey coach John Hynes told reporters. “We need to work hard, get on the forecheck and stick to detail. We just got away from that a little bit.” The Lightning won their fourth straight game on Monday as Nikita Kucherov kept his impressive streak going with a pair of goals and captain Steven Stamkos set up two in a 3-2 win at Detroit. Kucherov has scored at least one goal in six straight games to start the season, joining Tampa Bay general manager Steve Yzerman, Mario Lemieux and Keith Tkachuk as the only players in the last 30 years to accomplish that feat. “He didn’t show up to Tampa in September,” Lightning coach Jon Cooper told reporters of Kucherov. “He showed up in July. He was on the ice four or five times a week just working on his game. We’re reaping the benefits of that.”

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, NBCSN

ABOUT THE LIGHTNING (5-1-0): Kucherov has accumulated seven goals and 10 points in six games while linemate Stamkos has notched a tally and eight assists after missing most of last season due to a knee injury. Tampa Bay has netted at least one power-play goal in each contest (7-for-26) and was perfect in six penalty-killing situations on Monday to improve to 22-for-26 on the season. Andrei Vasilevskiy recorded his fifth win in six games during his first full season as a No. 1 goaltender but likely will be rested on Tuesday in favor of Peter Budaj.

ABOUT THE DEVILS (4-1-0): Nico Hischier has yet to score his first goal after being the first overall pick in the 2017 draft but has notched two assists, and Hynes has been pleased with the overall play of the rookie thus far. “The kid helps you win games,” Hynes told reporters. “He can help you in multiple ways. If he continues to progress and play the way he’s playing, his points, his goals will come.” Pavel Zacha, Marcus Johansson and Jimmy Hayes played sparingly in the second period and were benched for the third against the Rangers as Hynes went with nine forwards to send a message after a slow start to the game.

OVERTIME

1. Tampa Bay C Tyler Johnson registered the sixth short-handed goal of his career on Monday and needs one to tie for fourth place in franchise history.

2. New Jersey D Will Butcher is the first player to post eight assists in his first five NHL games since Calgary's Sergei Makarov in 1989-90.

3. The Lightning have gone 6-1-1 in the last eight meetings, but the Devils won 3-1 at home in the last matchup.

PREDICTION: Lightning 3, Devils 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Tampa Bay at New Jersey

W/L TRENDS

Tampa Bay

Lightning are 10-1 in their last 11 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Lightning are 7-1 in their last 8 games playing on 0 days rest. Lightning are 7-1 in their last 8 vs. Eastern Conference. Lightning are 6-1 in their last 7 games following a win. Lightning are 5-1 in their last 6 in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation. Lightning are 8-2 in their last 10 road games. Lightning are 4-1 in their last 5 vs. a team with a winning record. Lightning are 21-8 in their last 29 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Lightning are 20-8 in their last 28 overall.

New Jersey

Devils are 18-38 in their last 56 vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Devils are 23-49 in their last 72 overall. Devils are 4-10 in their last 14 games following a win. Devils are 7-19 in their last 26 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Devils are 7-19 in their last 26 vs. Eastern Conference. Devils are 7-20 in their last 27 home games. Devils are 2-6 in their last 8 vs. Atlantic. Devils are 3-13 in their last 16 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Devils are 1-7 in their last 8 games playing on 2 days rest.

OU TRENDS

Tampa Bay

Over is 6-1 in Lightning last 7 vs. Eastern Conference. Over is 5-1 in Lightning last 6 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 4-1 in Lightning last 5 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 4-1 in Lightning last 5 in the third game of a 3-in-4 days situation. Over is 6-2 in Lightning last 8 overall. Under is 10-4-1 in Lightning last 15 games playing on 0 days rest. Over is 15-6-5 in Lightning last 26 Tuesday games. Over is 5-2 in Lightning last 7 games following a win. Over is 5-2 in Lightning last 7 vs. Metropolitan. Under is 7-3 in Lightning last 10 road games.

New Jersey

Over is 3-0-3 in Devils last 6 vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Over is 7-0-1 in Devils last 8 games following a win. Over is 3-0-1 in Devils last 4 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 3-0-1 in Devils last 4 home games. Over is 4-0-2 in Devils last 6 vs. Atlantic. Over is 8-1-3 in Devils last 12 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 5-1-2 in Devils last 8 overall. Over is 5-1-1 in Devils last 7 vs. Eastern Conference. Under is 28-12-13 in Devils last 53 games playing on 2 days rest. Under is 28-13-13 in Devils last 54 Tuesday games.

HEAD TO HEAD

Lightning are 6-1 in the last 7 meetings. Under is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings in New Jersey. Under is 8-2-2 in the last 12 meetings. Home team is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings. Lightning are 5-14 in the last 19 meetings in New Jersey.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When:9:00 PM ET, Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Where:Rogers Place, Edmonton, Alberta

Preview: Hurricanes at Oilers

Gracenote
Oct 17, 2017

The Edmonton Oilers were the ultra-trendy pick to reach the Stanley Cup this season with reigning Hart Trophy recipient Connor McDavid and fellow forward Leon Draisaitl leading the way. After winning their opener, the Oilers look to avert dropping their fourth consecutive contest on Tuesday when they conclude their three-game homestand against the Carolina Hurricanes.

"We just have to lighten up a bit," forward Patrick Maroon of the club, which has been outscored 14-5 during its losing skid. "We just have to know that we still have 78 more games left. We can't sit here and feel sorry for ourselves." Workhorse goaltender Cam Talbot has been gashed for 12 goals on 73 shots in his last three games, but owns a 4-1-0 mark with two shutouts, a 1.18 goals-against average and .955 save percentage in five career encounters with Carolina. That's not comforting news for the Hurricanes, who have been limited to just one goal by Jeff Skinner in back-to-back losses to Columbus and Winnipeg, respectively. "I think we just need to be more hungry. We have opportunities," the 25-year-old Skinner said. "More hunger, more desperation. It's disappointing when that's the reason because that's in your control. We need more hunger and more desperation for sure."

TV: 9 p.m. ET, NHL.TV, FSN Carolinas, SNOL (Edmonton)

ABOUT THE HURRICANES (1-1-1): While Carolina's offense has been stuck in neutral, offseason acquisition Scott Darling has been clicking on all cylinders by turning aside 44 of 48 shots in the last two games. The 28-year-old has been in the crease in all three games for the Hurricanes as opposed to franchise goaltender Cam Ward, who has backstopped the team for the majority of 12 seasons. "He gives us a chance every night," coach Bill Peters of Darling. "... It's a race to three (goals) in the National Hockey League. You've gotta be able to get to three to get a point, if not two points."

ABOUT THE OILERS (1-3-0): With Draisaitl now on injured reserve with an eye issue and concussion-like symptoms, rookie Kailer Yamamoto made the most of his promotion to the first line by notching a secondary assist for his first career NHL point in Saturday's 6-1 loss to Ottawa. "I felt a lot more comfortable out there," said the 19-year-old Yamamoto, who had a team-high six shots in 18:38 of ice time. "Playing with McDavid again, it opened my eyes. He's an unbelievable player. I've got to keep up with him." McDavid recorded his second hat trick in the opener and has notched an assist in back-to-back games ahead of Tuesday's tilt versus Carolina, against which he scored in his last meeting - a 2-1 setback on Feb. 3.

OVERTIME

1. Edmonton C Brad Malone was recalled from Bakersfield of the American Hockey League and could face his former team on Tuesday.

2. Hurricanes LW Sebastian Aho, who scored the game-winning goal in the last meeting with the Oilers, has mustered just four shots in his last two contests.

3. Edmonton is just 1-for-12 on the power play while Carolina is converted just two of its 12 opportunities.

PREDICTION: Oilers 4, Hurricanes 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Carolina at Edmonton

W/L TRENDS

Carolina

Hurricanes are 17-39 in their last 56 road games. Hurricanes are 19-45 in their last 64 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game. Hurricanes are 2-5 in their last 7 games playing on 2 days rest. Hurricanes are 2-7 in their last 9 overall. Hurricanes are 2-7 in their last 9 Tuesday games. Hurricanes are 1-4 in their last 5 vs. Western Conference. Hurricanes are 0-5 in their last 5 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400. Hurricanes are 0-5 in their last 5 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Edmonton

Oilers are 9-1 in their last 10 vs. a team with a winning % below .400. Oilers are 6-1 in their last 7 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400. Oilers are 13-5 in their last 18 home games. Oilers are 23-9 in their last 32 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Oilers are 15-36 in their last 51 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Oilers are 12-39 in their last 51 Tuesday games. Oilers are 1-4 in their last 5 vs. Metropolitan. Oilers are 1-4 in their last 5 overall. Oilers are 1-4 in their last 5 vs. Eastern Conference. Oilers are 0-5 in their last 5 games playing on 2 days rest.

OU TRENDS

Carolina

Under is 4-0-1 in Hurricanes last 5 games playing on 2 days rest. Under is 4-1-1 in Hurricanes last 6 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 4-1 in Hurricanes last 5 vs. Pacific. Under is 4-1-1 in Hurricanes last 6 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400. Under is 3-1-1 in Hurricanes last 5 vs. a team with a losing record. Under is 16-7-9 in Hurricanes last 32 Tuesday games.

Edmonton

Over is 4-0 in Oilers last 4 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 4-0 in Oilers last 4 following a loss of 3 or more goals. Under is 7-1-1 in Oilers last 9 vs. Metropolitan. Over is 6-1 in Oilers last 7 home games. Over is 5-1 in Oilers last 6 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 4-1 in Oilers last 5 following a home loss of 3 or more goals. Under is 10-3-1 in Oilers last 14 games playing on 2 days rest. Under is 18-7-1 in Oilers last 26 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400. Over is 10-4-1 in Oilers last 15 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.

HEAD TO HEAD

Under is 3-0-1 in the last 4 meetings. Home team is 16-5 in the last 21 meetings. Hurricanes are 0-4 in the last 4 meetings in Edmonton.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When:10:00 PM ET, Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Where:T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

Preview: Sabres at Golden Knights

Gracenote
Oct 17, 2017

The expansion Vegas Golden Knights have enjoyed a strong start out of the blocks while the Buffalo Sabres finally found their footing with their first victory of the season. The Golden Knights vie for their fifth win in six contests and second straight over an Atlantic Division representative on Tuesday when they host the Sabres.

Malcolm Subban, who got the nod on Sunday after Vegas placed Marc-Andre Fleury (concussion-like symptoms) on injured reserve, came within 30 seconds of a shutout versus his former team before settling for a 3-1 win over Boston. The 21-save performance earned Subban his first career NHL victory and helped the Golden Knights become the first team in the expansion era – and third in league history (Canadiens in 1917-18, Rangers in 1926-27) – to win four of its first five games in its inaugural season. While Vegas is cashing in to start the season, Buffalo nearly went broke with five losses before handing Phil Housley his first win with the Sabres in 3-1 victory over Anaheim on Sunday. "There's a lot of ways that they could have turned in the wrong direction, but they just stuck with it," Housley said.

TV: 10 p.m. ET, NHL.TV, MSG-Buffalo, AT&T SportsNet-Rocky Mountain (Vegas)

ABOUT THE SABRES (1-4-1): Chad Johnson rebounded from a 6-1 drubbing at the hands of New Jersey with a 25-save performance versus the Ducks, although Robin Lehner likely will get the nod versus Vegas. The 26-year-old Swede is searching for his first win despite having yielded just six goals over his last seven periods. Jack Eichel leads Buffalo with five assists and shares top honors with Evander Kane in points (seven), with three and four, respectively, coming on the first three contests of the team's four-game road trip.

ABOUT THE GOLDEN KNIGHTS (4-1-0): With 30-goal scorer Jonathan Marchessault and Erik Haula sidelined by lower-body injuries, Alex Tuch and Vadim Shipachyov paid immediate dividends following their respective recalls from Chicago of the American Hockey League by scoring versus the Bruins. "They played a good game and they capitalized on their chances," Vegas coach Gerard Gallant said. "When you lose players like Marchessault, Haula and Fleury in the last game and you bring these guys in, they're a big part of our group. They played really well for us." James Neal (team-leading six goals), who was held off the scoresheet for the first time this season on Sunday, collected a goal and two assists - albeit with a minus-5 rating - in two encounters versus Buffalo last season.

OVERTIME

1. Former Sabres D Brayden Schenn has one assist this season while F William Carrier has provided a spark on the fourth line for Vegas.

2. Buffalo F Kyle Okposo hopes to end a two-game absence due to the flu with a return to the ice on Tuesday.

3. Vegas is just 1-for-21 on the power play this season, but is 13-for-14 on the penalty kill.

PREDICTION: Sabres 3, Golden Knights 2