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

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-16-2017, 09:57 AM

NBA Northwest betting preview and odds: Thunder the faves among all the new faces
Steve Merril

The Northwest Division received a kind of extreme makeover this NBA offseason. Paul George and Carmelo Anthony join MVP Russell Westbrook in Oklahoma City, Jimmy Butler reunites with Tom Thibodeau in Minnesota and Paul Milsap signed with an up and coming Denver squad. Steve Merril breaks down all these changes and gives his season win total pick for each team.

Denver Nuggets (2016-17: 40-42 SU, 46-36 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +550
Season Win Total: 45.5

Why to Bet On The Nuggets: Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray are two good pieces to build around. Jokic had several triple-doubles last year, leading Denver with 9.8 rebounds per game and 4.9 assists. Murray may have put up just under 10 points per contest, but he played the role of point guard well. The addition of Paul Millsap solidifies the front court with Danilo Gallinari gone.

Why Not to Bet On The Nuggets: In this division you really need a true superstar to survive and Denver lacks one. The Nuggets ranked 27th in scoring defense and 29th in field-goal percentage defense last season. Michael Malone has a losing record as head coach and might not be good enough to take this team to the next level.

Season Win Total Pick: Under 45.5

Minnesota Timberwolves (2016-17: 31-51 SU, 37-44-1 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +250
Season Win Total: 48.5

Why to Bet On The Timberwolves: It was a great offseason for Minnesota as the team added Jimmy Butler to an already great duo of Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins. Butler brings a scoring mentality as well as someone who is willing to share the basketball. Towns averaged 25.1 points per game and 12.3 rebounds per contest last season, while Wiggins chipped in 23.6 ppg. Jamal Crawford will be a solid scorer off the bench even at the age of 37.

Why Not to Bet On The Timberwolves: It's not that easy to just add all these new pieces and have them gel right away. Going from Ricky Rubio to Jeff Teague at point guard isn't that much of an upgrade. Tom Thibodeau supposedly is a defensive coach, but it didn't show last season. The lack of a true perimeter shooter will hurt when opponents decide to collapse down low in the paint against Minnesota's athleticism.

Season Win Total Pick: Under 48.5

Oklahoma City Thunder (2016-17: 47-35 SU, 45-36-1 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: -140
Season Win Total: 53

Why to Bet On The Thunder: Not too many teams can roll out a trio of scorers like Oklahoma City can. The late addition of Carmelo Anthony is a big help alongside Russell Westbrook and Paul George who is potentially playing for a big contract in free agency. With these stars you need solid role players and Andre Roberson and Steven Adams are two of those. Roberson is a defensive specialist, while Adams is a banger inside. The squad also has one of the strongest home courts in the league.

Why Not to Bet On The Thunder: Head coach Billy Donovan must find a way to manage all these egos in one locker room and keep everything together. Carmelo Anthony has a history of dominating the ball and that won't fly with Westbrook and George. The team's depth isn't great either and Roberson won't be able to play late in games if he continues to struggle at the free throw line. If this team starts slow, tensions might mount.

Season Win Total Pick: Over 53

Portland Trail Blazers (2016-17: 41-41 SU, 40-42 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +1500
Season Win Total: 42.5

Why to Bet On The Blazers: Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum are an All-Star duo who can beat you driving the line and outside the arc. Jusuf Nurkic was a nice pickup after the deadline last year. He'll have help inside with rookie Gonzaga center Zach Collins. Terry Stotts is a good head coach and someone you can trust at the end of a ballgame.

Why Not to Bet On The Blazers: The roster needs depth and the team did very little this offseason. Outside of McCollum and Lillard there are very few players to trust when it comes to scoring. Evan Turner averaged just nine points per game in 2016-17 and is inconsistent. While the other teams in this division are improving, this team is standing still. They probably should have kept their three first-round draft picks, instead of trading two of them away.

Season Win Total Pick: Under 42.5

Utah Jazz (2016-17: 51-31 SU, 36-42-4 ATS)

Odds to Win the Division: +2200
Season Win Total: 40.5

Why to Bet On The Jazz: Defense will be this team's calling card now that a lot of their upper-level scoring is gone. Rudy Gobert continues to improve and he now has a better point guard in Ricky Rubio who is an upgrade over George Hill. There is also intriguing talent in Dante Exum, Rodney Hood and Donovan Mitchell. At first it seemed like an odd hire, but Quin Snyder is working well as the head coach.

Why Not to Bet On The Jazz: You do not lose the likes of Gordon Hayward and expect to have the same success. If a star player can leave the franchise, you have to wonder if others will consider doing so as well once their contracts are up. Someone will need to step up and take the big shots in close games. The Jazz do not have many snipers on the perimeter which means Utah will have to rely on their defense to win low-scoring contests.

Season Win Total Pick: Under 40.5

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-17-2017, 12:02 AM

GAME: Los Angeles Dodgers (109-58) at Chicago Cubs (95-74)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, October 17 - 9:00 PM EST
WHERE: Wrigley Field, Chicago, Illinois
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A

Playoff Series:

League Championship; LA Dodgers leads 2-0

Preview: Dodgers at Cubs

Gracenote
Oct 16, 2017

The Los Angeles Dodgers have yet to lose in the postseason and are two wins from reaching their first World Series since 1988. The defending World Series champion Chicago Cubs have three straight home games beginning Tuesday to try to prevent them from getting any closer.

The Cubs have had the Dodgers’ number at Wrigley Field recently, winning two of three there during last year’s NLCS and taking two of three when the Dodgers visited in April. Los Angeles’ pitchers have dominated this series, though, allowing only three runs through two games as the bullpen has combined for eight scoreless frames and allowed one baserunner and no hits. “I think up to this point we've done everything we can to put ourselves in a good position, but there is a long way to go,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters. “It’s definitely noted how resilient that club is over there. They're going to do everything they can to win a game, and we're going to do the same.” To get back into the series, the Cubs will have to get the big bats in the middle of their lineup going as Chicago is hitting .117 in the series and stars Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo are a combined 1-for-14 with six strikeouts.
TV: 9 p.m. ET, TBS

PITCHING MATCHUP: Dodgers RH Yu Darvish (1-0, 1.80 ERA) vs. Cubs RH Kyle Hendricks (1-0, 3.27)
Darvish won his only start in the NLDS, allowing one run and two hits while striking out seven over five innings to beat Arizona for his first win in three postseason starts. The 31-year-old went 4-3 with a 3.44 ERA in nine regular-season starts after the Dodgers acquired him from Texas, and has allowed only two earned runs over his last four starts dating to the regular season. Darvish faced the Cubs last season while with the Rangers and allowed two runs over 4 1/3 innings in a loss at Wrigley Field.
Hendricks is 2-1 with a 2.60 ERA in nine postseason starts, but wasn’t at his best in Game 5 of the NLDS against Washington, allowing four runs --and two homers -- over four innings. The 27-year-old helped the Cubs clinch last year’s NLCS by throwing 7 1/3 scoreless innings against the Dodgers a year ago. Hendricks is 2-1 with a 3.15 ERA in three regular-season meetings against Los Angeles.

WALK-OFFS
1. Since the LCS expanded to a best-of-seven format in 1985, only three of the 28 teams who lost the first two games have come back to win the series.
2. Dodgers 3B Justin Turner, whose three-run homer ended Game 2, is 9-for-21 with two homers and 10 RBIs in five games this postseason.
3. Chicago 2B Javier Baez is 0-for-19 with eight strikeouts this postseason.

PREDICTION: Cubs 3, Dodgers 2

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-17-2017, 12:03 AM

Trends - LA Dodgers at Chi. Cubs

W/L TRENDS

LA Dodgers

Dodgers are 5-0 in their last 5 playoff games.
Dodgers are 7-0 in their last 7 vs. a team with a winning record.
Dodgers are 7-1 in their last 8 games vs. a right-handed starter.
Dodgers are 4-1 in their last 5 road games.
Dodgers are 58-15 in their last 73 games following a win.
Dodgers are 24-7 in their last 31 vs. National League Central.
Dodgers are 20-6 in their last 26 games following an off day.
Dodgers are 40-14 in their last 54 after allowing 2 runs or less in their previous game.
Dodgers are 39-14 in their last 53 when their opponent scores 2 runs or less in their previous game.
Dodgers are 5-2 in their last 7 road games vs. a team with a winning record.
Dodgers are 5-2 in their last 7 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
Dodgers are 74-33 in their last 107 overall.
Dodgers are 74-33 in their last 107 games on grass.
Dodgers are 36-16 in their last 52 Tuesday games.
Dodgers are 6-13 in their last 19 playoff road games.
Dodgers are 1-10 in their last 11 League Championship road games.

Chi. Cubs

Cubs are 16-5 in their last 21 home games vs. a right-handed starter.
Cubs are 19-7 in their last 26 home games.
Cubs are 31-12 in their last 43 games following a loss.
Cubs are 5-2 in their last 7 games vs. a starter with a WHIP less than 1.15.
Cubs are 44-18 in their last 62 games vs. a right-handed starter.
Cubs are 17-7 in their last 24 games on grass.
Cubs are 36-15 in their last 51 games following an off day.
Cubs are 18-8 in their last 26 overall.
Cubs are 49-23 in their last 72 Tuesday games.
Cubs are 3-7 in their last 10 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.
Cubs are 2-5 in their last 7 vs. National League West.
Cubs are 2-5 in their last 7 League Championship home games.
Cubs are 4-11 in their last 15 League Championship games.
Cubs are 3-10 in their last 13 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.
Cubs are 1-4 in their last 5 when their opponent allows 2 runs or less in their previous game.
Cubs are 4-1 in Hendricks' last 5 starts vs. a team with a winning record.
Cubs are 4-1 in Hendricks' last 5 starts.
Cubs are 4-1 in Hendricks' last 5 starts on grass.
Cubs are 25-9 in Hendricks' last 34 starts when their opponent allows 2 runs or less in their previous game.
Cubs are 20-8 in Hendricks' last 28 starts after scoring 2 runs or less in their previous game.
Cubs are 2-5 in Hendricks' last 7 Tuesday starts.

OU TRENDS

LA Dodgers

Under is 4-0 in Dodgers last 4 road games vs. a team with a winning record.
Under is 4-0-1 in Dodgers last 5 road games.
Under is 3-0-1 in Dodgers last 4 road games vs. a right-handed starter.
Under is 6-0-1 in Dodgers last 7 vs. National League Central.
Under is 4-0 in Dodgers last 4 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
Over is 5-1 in Dodgers last 6 Tuesday games.
Under is 4-1-1 in Dodgers last 6 playoff road games.
Under is 3-1-1 in Dodgers last 5 games following an off day.
Under is 5-2-1 in Dodgers last 8 on grass.
Under is 10-4-1 in Dodgers last 15 after allowing 2 runs or less in their previous game.
Under is 5-2-1 in Dodgers last 8 games vs. a right-handed starter.
Under is 5-2-1 in Dodgers last 8 vs. a team with a winning record.
Under is 5-2-1 in Dodgers last 8 overall.

Chi. Cubs

Under is 3-0-1 in Cubs last 4 games vs. a starter with a WHIP less than 1.15.
Under is 4-0-1 in Cubs last 5 games following an off day.
Under is 4-0 in Cubs last 4 games vs. a right-handed starter.
Under is 7-1-1 in Cubs last 9 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.
Under is 6-1 in Cubs last 7 playoff home games.
Under is 6-1 in Cubs last 7 games following a loss.
Under is 3-1-1 in Cubs last 5 on grass.
Under is 3-1-1 in Cubs last 5 overall.
Under is 3-1-1 in Cubs last 5 playoff games.
Under is 5-2 in Cubs last 7 home games vs. a right-handed starter.
Under is 5-2 in Cubs last 7 home games.
Under is 40-19-6 in Cubs last 65 vs. National League West.
Under is 15-1 in Hendricks' last 16 Tuesday starts.
Under is 6-1 in Hendricks' last 7 starts on grass.
Under is 6-1 in Hendricks' last 7 starts overall.
Under is 5-1-1 in Hendricks' last 7 starts vs. National League West.
Under is 9-2 in Hendricks' last 11 starts with 4 days of rest.
Under is 24-6-1 in Hendricks' last 31 starts vs. a team with a winning record.
Under is 20-6-1 in Hendricks' last 27 home starts vs. a team with a winning record.
Under is 5-2 in Hendricks' last 7 home starts.

HEAD TO HEAD

Dodgers are 5-0 in the last 5 meetings.
Under is 12-2 in the last 14 meetings in Chicago.
Under is 21-6-1 in the last 28 meetings.
Dodgers are 2-6 in the last 8 meetings in Chicago.

UMPIRE TRENDS - NAME UNAVAILABLE

No trends available.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-17-2017, 12:05 AM

When: 8:00 PM ET, Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Where: Quicken Loans Arena, Cleveland, Ohio

Preview: Celtics at Cavaliers

Gracenote
Oct 16, 2017

Kyrie Irving figures to receive a chilly reception when he returns to Cleveland as a member of the Boston Celtics for Tuesday's season-opening game against the Cavaliers. Irving played six seasons with Cleveland but requested a trade following last season and ended up in Boston for a package that included point guard Isaiah Thomas and forward Jae Crowder.

The four-time All-Star guard helped Cleveland reach three NBA Finals - including winning the 2016 title - but reportedly tired of playing with forward LeBron James and now attempts to downplay his return to no avail. "The excitement and the energy is there but I think everything extra has been created by outside influence," Irving said. "So that's neither here nor there. I don't know what that reality is. ... It's going to happen regardless. That's just the nature of the business. I understand that." Irving helped the Cavaliers defeat the Celtics in last season's Eastern Conference finals and Cleveland's revamped roster includes veteran guards Dwyane Wade, Derrick Rose and Jose Calderon in addition to newcomers Thomas (out due to hip surgery) and Crowder. James has been bothered by a sprained left ankle and his availability may not be determined until close to tipoff.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, TNT

ABOUT THE CELTICS: Irving wasn't the lone big offseason acquisition as Boston lured All-Star small forward Gordon Hayward (formerly of the Utah Jazz) to town with a four-year, $128 million deal. The move to Boston allows Hayward to reunite with Brad Stevens, his former college coach at Butler, and he looks to build off a career-best 2016-17 campaign in which he averaged 21.9 points and 5.4 rebounds per game. Veteran post player Al Horford, second-year swingman Jaylen Brown and rookie forward Jayson Tatum are the other likely starters, with Tatum drawing the assignment of guarding James in his NBA debut.

ABOUT THE CAVALIERS: James missed four of Cleveland's five preseason games but he did participate in Monday's practice, which consisted of shooting drills and a walkthrough. "You know I never hide stuff from you guys, I really don't know," Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue told reporters. "I mean, just depends on how he feels after (Monday), but I really don't know." Thomas may not make his Cleveland debut until around the All-Star break, so veterans like Rose, Wade and J.R. Smith will be asked to help James and center Kevin Love on the scoring side.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. The Cavaliers went 3-1 in the regular season against the Celtics last season before winning the Eastern Conference finals in five games.

2. Boston F Marcus Morris, acquired from the Detroit Pistons in the offseason, will miss the first few weeks of the season due to knee soreness.

3. Cleveland is 4-23 over the past three seasons when James doesn't play, including losses in the last 11.

PREDICTION: Cavaliers 109, Celtics 107

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-17-2017, 12:07 AM

Trends - Boston at Cleveland

ATS TRENDS

Boston

Celtics are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games following a straight up win.
Celtics are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 road games.
Celtics are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.
Celtics are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game.
Celtics are 11-5 ATS in their last 16 games overall.
Celtics are 11-5 ATS in their last 16 vs. Eastern Conference.

Cleveland

Cavaliers are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games playing on 3 or more days rest.
Cavaliers are 9-2-1 ATS in their last 12 games following a straight up win.
Cavaliers are 8-2-1 ATS in their last 11 vs. Eastern Conference.
Cavaliers are 6-2-1 ATS in their last 9 games following a ATS win.
Cavaliers are 6-2-1 ATS in their last 9 vs. NBA Atlantic.
Cavaliers are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 Tuesday games.
Cavaliers are 10-4-1 ATS in their last 15 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.
Cavaliers are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
Cavaliers are 9-4-1 ATS in their last 14 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game.
Cavaliers are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 home games.

OU TRENDS

Boston
Over is 7-1 in Celtics last 8 Tuesday games. Under is 15-5-2 in Celtics last 22 road games. Over is 9-4 in Celtics last 13 games playing on 3 or more days rest.

Cleveland

Over is 4-0 in Cavaliers last 4 when their opponent scores 100 points or more in their previous game.
Over is 20-6 in Cavaliers last 26 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game.
Over is 3-1-1 in Cavaliers last 5 games playing on 3 or more days rest.
Over is 20-7-1 in Cavaliers last 28 home games.
Over is 14-5 in Cavaliers last 19 games following a straight up win.
Over is 8-3 in Cavaliers last 11 Tuesday games.
Over is 37-16-1 in Cavaliers last 54 vs. Eastern Conference.
Over is 15-7-1 in Cavaliers last 23 vs. NBA Atlantic.
Over is 34-16-1 in Cavaliers last 51 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
Over is 34-16-1 in Cavaliers last 51 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.
Over is 40-19-1 in Cavaliers last 60 overall.

HEAD TO HEAD

Celtics are 3-0-1 ATS in the last 4 meetings in Cleveland.
Over is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in Cleveland.
Road team is 12-3-1 ATS in the last 16 meetings.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-17-2017, 12:08 AM

When:10:30 PM ET, Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Where:Oracle Arena, Oakland, California

Preview: Rockets at Warriors

Gracenote
Oct 16, 2017

The Golden State Warriors begin pursuit of their third NBA title in four seasons when they host the Houston Rockets in Tuesday's season-opening clash. The Warriors defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers to win last season's NBA Finals and will be in the hunt again this season behind the star quartet of forwards Kevin Durant and Draymond Green and guards Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.

Curry and Durant co-existed beautifully in the latter's first season with the Warriors but now the focus is on Curry, who coach Steve Kerr predicts will be better than his two recent NBA MVP campaigns of 2014-15 and 2015-16. "I think Steph is at his absolute peak right now," Kerr told reporters. "Physically, emotionally, this is probably as good as he's ever going to be, this year. I think he's better now than he was last year and the year before. And that's saying something." The Rockets added veteran point guard Chris Paul to the James Harden-led group and coach Mike D'Antoni feels his squad is closer to competing with the Warriors in terms of a possible matchup in the Western Conference finals. "We closed the gap only because I feel that we're better this year than last year," D'Antoni told reporters. "Now, we'll see if they're better. They might be better, so maybe it's an illusion. That's the reason we can say that. We just feel like we're a better team this year."

TV: 10:30 p.m. ET, TNT

ABOUT THE ROCKETS: Harden was a do-it-all machine last season when he was the runner-up for MVP to Oklahoma City's Russell Westbrook, but Paul is now around to be the primary ball-handler. "I can adjust to anybody," Harden told reporters. "Anybody that is a leader can figure it out and work together. That's just how life works. Anybody that works hard and has a great work ethic and loves and is passionate about something will be able to mesh and work together no matter what. We bring those qualities out of each other, me and CP. It's bound to work." Houston will again hoist a ton of 3-pointers as Harden (262), guard Eric Gordon (246) and forward Ryan Anderson (204) each topped 200 last season while forward Trevor Ariza (191) fell just short.

ABOUT THE WARRIORS: Durant enters this season in a comfortable position after the decision to leave Oklahoma City 15 months ago created plenty of drama, in addition to the upheaval of moving from a town he spent eight seasons living in to adjusting to a new city before capping off the season by being named Finals MVP. "He looked so relaxed and confident," Kerr said of Durant's preseason play. "Last year, he was trying to decipher what we were doing. This year, he just did it. There's a comfort level that exists now that allows him to go out there and play without thinking." Thompson remains one of the best two-way shooting guards in the NBA while Green is the reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. The Warriors went 3-1 against the Rockets last season.

2. Paul (bruised knee) missed Houston's final preseason game but was cleared for the opener.

3. Kerr stated after Monday's practice that F Andre Iguodala (back) and F Omri Casspi (ankle) are questionable for the opener with PG Shaun Livingston listed as probable.

PREDICTION: Warriors 128, Rockets 118

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-17-2017, 12:09 AM

Trends - Houston at Golden State

ATS TRENDS

Houston

Rockets are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games playing on 3 or more days rest.
Rockets are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a ATS loss.
Rockets are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games.
Rockets are 43-21 ATS in their last 64 Tuesday games.
Rockets are 6-13 ATS in their last 19 vs. Western Conference.
Rockets are 6-14 ATS in their last 20 games overall.
Rockets are 5-12 ATS in their last 17 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
Rockets are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game.
Rockets are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games following a straight up loss.
Rockets are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 vs. NBA Pacific.

Golden State

Warriors are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.
Warriors are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 vs. NBA Southwest.
Warriors are 14-4-1 ATS in their last 19 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
Warriors are 22-7-1 ATS in their last 30 games following a straight up win.
Warriors are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 Tuesday games.
Warriors are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games following a ATS loss.
Warriors are 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 vs. Western Conference.
Warriors are 23-8-1 ATS in their last 32 games overall.
Warriors are 22-8-1 ATS in their last 31 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.
Warriors are 18-7-1 ATS in their last 26 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game.

OU TRENDS

Houston
Over is 4-1 in Rockets last 5 road games.

Golden State

Over is 4-0 in Warriors last 4 overall.
Over is 5-0 in Warriors last 5 vs. Western Conference.
Over is 5-0 in Warriors last 5 vs. NBA Southwest.
Over is 4-0 in Warriors last 4 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game.
Over is 6-1 in Warriors last 7 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.
Over is 6-1 in Warriors last 7 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game.
Over is 5-1 in Warriors last 6 home games.
Under is 8-2 in Warriors last 10 Tuesday games.
Over is 17-5 in Warriors last 22 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game.
Over is 16-5 in Warriors last 21 games following a straight up win.
Under is 16-5 in Warriors last 21 games following a ATS loss.

HEAD TO HEAD

Under is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings.
Rockets are 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Golden State.
Rockets are 1-5 ATS in the last 6 meetings.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-17-2017, 12:11 AM

Preview: Penguins at Rangers

Gracenote
Oct 17, 2017

Off to their worst start in 37 years, the New York Rangers will attempt to turn things around when they host the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions on Tuesday night. The Rangers have managed only two points through their first six games -- the fewest since the 1980-81 season -- as they brace for a visit from Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins.

New York opened a six-game homestand with a 3-2 loss to the neighboring New Jersey Devils on Saturday night and has produced four goals during a three-game losing streak. “Hopefully, this is rock bottom here,” captain Ryan McDonagh said after the latest setback. “I’ve never had a start like this in my career, so it’s tough mentally. By no means is this group going to quit.” Since they were pummeled at Chicago 10-1 in the second game of the season, Pittsburgh has won three of its last four, including Saturday's 4-3 victory over visiting Florida despite surrendering 46 shots on goal. “One of the cornerstone characteristics of our identity has to be becoming a team that’s more difficult to play against,” Penguins coach Mike Sullivan said. “It’s hard to score your way to a championship in this league.”

TV: 7 p.m. ET, TVAS, AT&T SportsNet-Pittsburgh, MSG (New York)

ABOUT THE PENGUINS (3-2-1): Crosby halted a four-game goal-scoring drought by scoring twice against Florida, both coming on a pair of deflections. “I see him do it all the time,” Sullivan said. “He has such great hand-eye coordination. I think he’s the best in the game around the net, in close. A lot of it speaks to his skill level, but it’s also his determination. He’s in the battle areas all the time.” Pittsburgh has scored five power-play goals over the past three games but has also surrendered three in the past two contests.

ABOUT THE RANGERS (1-5-0): New York has scored 13 goals in its six games and netted more than two on one occasion, prompting coach Alain Vigneault so shuffle all his lines at Monday's practice, including adding Rick Nash to the top power-play unit. "I'm going to get the continuity once I get the results," Vigneault said per Newsday. "Two 5-on-5 goals in five (of the) games is not doing it." The reconfigured No. 1 line at Monday's practice featured Mika Zibanejad centering Mats Zuccarello and Nash, who call the slow start "a shock."

OVERTIME

1. Rangers G Henrik Lundqvist, who has allowed four goals in his last three starts, was 0-1-1 with a 4.34 GAA versus Pittsburgh last season.

2. Crosby had four goals and seven points in four matchups against Pittsburgh last season.

3. New York is seeking to avoid its first 1-6-0 start since the 1959-60 season.

PREDICTION: Rangers 3, Penguins 2

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-17-2017, 12:12 AM

Trends - Pittsburgh at NY Rangers

W/L TRENDS

Pittsburgh

Penguins are 15-6 in their last 21 Tuesday games.
Penguins are 47-19 in their last 66 vs. Metropolitan.
Penguins are 49-21 in their last 70 vs. a team with a losing record.
Penguins are 29-13 in their last 42 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game.
Penguins are 74-35 in their last 109 vs. Eastern Conference.
Penguins are 39-19 in their last 58 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400.
Penguins are 2-5 in their last 7 road games.

NY Rangers

Rangers are 54-25 in their last 79 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.
Rangers are 5-12 in their last 17 Tuesday games.
Rangers are 2-5 in their last 7 games playing on 2 days rest.
Rangers are 1-4 in their last 5 home games.
Rangers are 2-9 in their last 11 vs. Metropolitan.
Rangers are 1-5 in their last 6 vs. Eastern Conference.
Rangers are 1-7 in their last 8 overall.
Rangers are 0-5 in their last 5 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.

OU TRENDS

Pittsburgh
Under is 7-1 in Penguins last 8 Tuesday games. Under is 10-4-1 in Penguins last 15 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400. Over is 47-22-8 in Penguins last 77 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game.

NY Rangers

Under is 4-0 in Rangers last 4 overall.
Under is 4-0 in Rangers last 4 vs. Metropolitan.
Under is 4-1-1 in Rangers last 6 games playing on 2 days rest.
Under is 7-2-2 in Rangers last 11 home games.
Under is 8-3-1 in Rangers last 12 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.
Under is 5-2 in Rangers last 7 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.
Under is 11-5-3 in Rangers last 19 vs. Eastern Conference.

HEAD TO HEAD

Penguins are 6-1 in the last 7 meetings in New York.
Over is 5-1-1 in the last 7 meetings.
Penguins are 10-3 in the last 13 meetings.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-17-2017, 12:13 AM

Preview: Maple Leafs at Capitals

Gracenote
Oct 16, 2017

The Toronto Maple Leafs take the NHL's top offense on the road Tuesday night when they visit the Washington Capitals in a rematch of last season’s first-round Eastern Conference playoff series. The Maple Leafs are averaging 5.2 goals and own the best power-play percentage in the league (30.8) as they prepare to face a Washington team that surrendered eight tallies in its last contest.

Toronto has won four of five to start the season, but is near the bottom of the league in goals against (3.8) and still trying to find its best form outside its own offensive zone. “We’re not playing near as good as we were at the end of last year, not even close,” Maple Leafs coach Mike Babcock, whose team lost in six games to the Capitals last spring, told reporters. “But we’re probably playing better than we were at this time last year. We have more talent, but we can still play way better than we are playing and we plan on getting better.” Washington had points in four of its first five games with captain Alex Ovechkin posting nine goals before Philadelphia celebrated its home opener by pounding the rival Capitals 8-2 on Saturday. “We need to realize that we can’t just give away the puck all the time,” Washington center Nicklas Backstrom told reporters. “If we don’t realize that quick it’s going to be a long season.”

TV: 7 p.m. ET, TSN 4 (Toronto), NBCSN Washington

ABOUT THE MAPLE LEAFS (4-1-0): Auston Matthews is showing no signs of a sophomore slump with five goals, three assists and a plus-7 rating in the early going after his overtime tally in a 4-3 victory at Montreal on Saturday. Matthews owns one of the eight power-play goals Toronto (8-for-26) has recorded with James van Riemsdyk and Nazem Kadri registering two each to lead the way. Patrick Marleau has fit in nicely for the Maple Leafs with three goals and a plus-4 rating while defenseman Nikita Zaitsev is off to a strong start with five points and a plus-8.

ABOUT THE CAPITALS (3-2-1): Washington is dealing with the loss of top-pair defenseman Matt Niskanen (hand), who was put on long term injured reserve and will be out until at least Nov. 7. John Carlson, Dmitry Orlov and Brooks Orpik are the only blueliners available who played significant minutes with the team last season while the Capitals will need to rely on youngsters Madison Bowey and Christian Djoos, who have combined to play four NHL games. Evgeny Kuznetsov leads the NHL in assists (11) and is tied with Backstrom for the team lead with 11 points.

OVERTIME

1. The Capitals have given up 22 goals, but No. 1 G Braden Holtby surrendered only 10 in his four starts (.923 save percentage).

2. Toronto F Mitch Marner boasts four points in five games, but his minus-6 rating pushed him down to the fourth line at practice Monday.

3. Capitals C Lars Eller, who has two assists in six games, reportedly missed Monday’s practice because of illness and is questionable.

PREDICTION: Maple Leafs 5, Capitals 3

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-17-2017, 12:13 AM

Trends - Toronto at Washington

W/L TRENDS

Toronto

Maple Leafs are 4-1 in their last 5 overall.
Maple Leafs are 9-3 in their last 12 games playing on 2 days rest.
Maple Leafs are 6-2 in their last 8 road games.
Maple Leafs are 34-73 in their last 107 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game.
Maple Leafs are 6-14 in their last 20 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game.
Maple Leafs are 1-4 in their last 5 vs. Metropolitan.

Washington

Capitals are 5-0 in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.
Capitals are 6-0 in their last 6 Tuesday games.
Capitals are 11-1 in their last 12 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game.
Capitals are 55-16 in their last 71 vs. Atlantic.
Capitals are 20-6 in their last 26 games following a loss of 3 or more goals.
Capitals are 20-6 in their last 26 games playing on 2 days rest.
Capitals are 37-14 in their last 51 home games.
Capitals are 66-29 in their last 95 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.
Capitals are 40-19 in their last 59 vs. Eastern Conference.
Capitals are 45-22 in their last 67 overall.

OU TRENDS

Toronto

Over is 5-0 in Maple Leafs last 5 overall.
Over is 5-0 in Maple Leafs last 5 games following a win.
Over is 9-2 in Maple Leafs last 11 games playing on 2 days rest.
Under is 4-1 in Maple Leafs last 5 Tuesday games.
Over is 6-2 in Maple Leafs last 8 vs. Eastern Conference.
Over is 5-2 in Maple Leafs last 7 vs. Metropolitan.
Over is 5-2 in Maple Leafs last 7 road games.
Under is 22-10 in Maple Leafs last 32 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Washington
Over is 5-1 in Capitals last 6 overall. Under is 5-1-2 in Capitals last 8 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600. Over is 5-1 in Capitals last 6 vs. Eastern Conference. Over is 4-1 in Capitals last 5 games playing on 2 days rest. Over is 6-2 in Capitals last 8 vs. Atlantic. Under is 9-4 in Capitals last 13 home games.

HEAD TO HEAD

Under is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings in Washington.
Home team is 13-6 in the last 19 meetings.
Maple Leafs are 7-19 in the last 26 meetings in Washington.
Maple Leafs are 3-11 in the last 14 meetings.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-17-2017, 12:15 AM

When:7:30 PM ET, Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Where:Canadian Tire Centre, Ottawa, Ontario

Preview: Canucks at Senators

Gracenote
Oct 16, 2017

Coming off a perfect road trip that was capped by a pair of dominating victories, the Ottawa Senators will be getting their best player back as they begin a five-game homestand against the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday night. Captain Erik Karlsson will make his season debut for Ottawa, which posted a shootout victory over the Canucks on Oct. 10.

Coach Guy Boucher said at Monday's practice that star defenseman Karlsson is "100 percent" ready and "he will play tomorrow," all but ensuring a highly charged fan base as the Senators seek their first home win. After dropping a pair of shootout losses in its first two home games, Ottawa completed the first three-game sweep through Western Canada in franchise history, punctuated by a pair of six-goal performances at Calgary and Edmonton. While the Senators are riding high, the Canucks have dropped three in a row on their season-opening road trip. Vancouver managed the second-fewest points in the league away from home last season and will try to reverse its fortunes as it kicks off a five-game, 10-day trek.

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, Sportsnet Vancouver, TSN 5 (Ottawa)

ABOUT THE CANUCKS (1-2-1): Offense, or a lack thereof, was a major sticking point last season for Vancouver, which has been limited to two goals each in each of the past three games. The Canucks ranked 29th in offense in 2016-17 and featured the league's second-worst power play, struggles that have carried into this season after they failed on seven chances with the man advantage in Saturday's 5-2 loss to Calgary. "You're not going to win a lot of games if that happens," acknowledged veteran forward Daniel Sedin. "You have to capitalize."

ABOUT THE SENATORS (3-0-2): Ottawa already has been receiving balanced scoring and now gets back its best offensive weapon in Karlsson, who recorded 17 goals and 54 assists last season. The two-time Norris Trophy winner also piled up 18 points in 19 playoff games in leading the Senators to the Eastern Conference finals. "I think I had the appropriate amount of time to get ready to play again and it's exciting," Karlsson told TSN at Monday's practice. "I'm going to be a little bit rusty probably, but it's better to get back into things as early as possible."

OVERTIME

1. Ottawa has started the season with a five-game point streak five times.

2. Canucks F Loui Eriksson had to exit Saturday's loss due to a knee injury and did not return.

3. In anticipation of Karlsson's return, the Senators sent rookie D Thomas Chabot to Belleville of the American Hockey League.

PREDICTION: Senators 4, Canucks 2

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-17-2017, 12:15 AM

Trends - Vancouver at Ottawa

W/L TRENDS

Vancouver

Canucks are 20-41 in their last 61 vs. Eastern Conference.
Canucks are 20-42 in their last 62 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.
Canucks are 17-36 in their last 53 overall.
Canucks are 20-46 in their last 66 vs. a team with a winning record.
Canucks are 15-37 in their last 52 road games.
Canucks are 7-19 in their last 26 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.
Canucks are 8-22 in their last 30 games following a loss of 3 or more goals.
Canucks are 5-16 in their last 21 games following a home loss of 3 or more goals.
Canucks are 1-5 in their last 6 games playing on 2 days rest.
Canucks are 1-7 in their last 8 Tuesday games.
Canucks are 0-4 in their last 4 vs. Atlantic.

Ottawa

Senators are 4-1 in their last 5 games playing on 2 days rest.
Senators are 4-1 in their last 5 vs. a team with a winning % below .400.
Senators are 4-1 in their last 5 Tuesday games.
Senators are 29-11 in their last 40 vs. Pacific.
Senators are 7-3 in their last 10 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game.
Senators are 7-3 in their last 10 vs. Western Conference.
Senators are 9-4 in their last 13 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game.

OU TRENDS

Vancouver

Over is 4-0-1 in Canucks last 5 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game.
Over is 4-0 in Canucks last 4 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.
Under is 4-1-2 in Canucks last 7 Tuesday games.
Over is 4-1-3 in Canucks last 8 following a home loss of 3 or more goals.
Over is 4-1-2 in Canucks last 7 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400.
Over is 6-2-5 in Canucks last 13 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game.
Over is 6-2-2 in Canucks last 10 following a loss of 3 or more goals.
Under is 3-1-2 in Canucks last 6 vs. a team with a winning record.
Under is 5-2-1 in Canucks last 8 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Ottawa

Over is 2-0-2 in Senators last 4 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game.
Over is 2-0-2 in Senators last 4 games following a win.
Over is 2-0-2 in Senators last 4 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game.
Over is 4-0-2 in Senators last 6 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game.
Under is 8-1-1 in Senators last 10 Tuesday games.
Over is 4-1 in Senators last 5 vs. Western Conference.
Over is 3-1-1 in Senators last 5 games playing on 2 days rest.
Over is 3-1-2 in Senators last 6 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game.
Over is 5-2 in Senators last 7 vs. a team with a winning % below .400.
Over is 36-15-2 in Senators last 53 vs. Pacific.
Under is 32-14-3 in Senators last 49 home games.

HEAD TO HEAD

Under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings.
Home team is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings.
Under is 9-4 in the last 13 meetings in Ottawa.
Canucks are 1-5 in the last 6 meetings.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 10-17-2017, 12:16 AM

When:8:00 PM ET, Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Where:Bell MTS Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Preview: Blue Jackets at Jets

Gracenote
Oct 16, 2017

Deficits have not kept the Columbus Blue Jackets from rallying for victories, as they arrive in Winnipeg to face the Jets on Tuesday with three consecutive come-from-behind wins. The latest came on Saturday, a 5-4 overtime triumph over Minnesota in which Columbus never led until Alexander Wennberg’s tally just 47 seconds into the extra session lifted the club to its fourth victory in five games to start the season.

“We’re just a resilient group,” forward Cam Atkinson told reporters Saturday, one night after the Blue Jackets scored twice in the third period to get past the New York Rangers 3-1. “We’re finding ways to get the job done.” The Jets also have won three in a row since replacing the struggling Steve Mason with Connor Hellebuyck. “You can see the guys blocking shots, working really hard, really grinding the other team down, keeping everything to the outside,” Hellebuyck told reporters after stopping 28 shots in Saturday's 2-1 home triumph over Carolina. Coach Paul Maurice stated after Monday’s practice that Mason, who has not played since Oct. 7, will start against Columbus.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, FSN Ohio (Columbus), TSN3 (Winnipeg)

ABOUT THE BLUE JACKETS (4-1-0): The top line of Wennberg, Atkinson and Artemi Panarin has combined for 14 points through five games, with the latter netting the winning goal in the victory over the Rangers. Sergei Bobrovsky is unbeaten in four games while posting a 1.48 goals-against average and .952 save percentage. The Blue Jackets have allowed just 2.2 goals per contest, beginning the week sixth in the NHL in that category.

ABOUT THE JETS (3-2-0): Left wing Nikolaj Ehlers has scored five goals during the team's winning streak, earning NHL First Star of the Week honors. After his solid outing against the Hurricanes, Hellebuyck is 3-0-0 with a 2.11 GAA this season. The Jets have surrendered a total of five goals in their last three contests after allowing 13 in their first two games.

OVERTIME

1. Winnipeg placed C Mathieu Perreault (lower body) on injured reserve Monday and recalled LW Kyle Connor from Manitoba of the American Hockey League.the AHL.

2. The Blue Jackets will be without D Gabriel Carlsson (upper body), placing him on injured reserve and recalling D Markus Nutivaara from Cleveland of the AHL.

3. Mason, who spent the first 4 1/2 seasons of his career with Columbus, gave up 11 goals over 100 minutes, 36 seconds of ice time in his first two appearances with Winnipeg.

PREDICTION: Blue Jackets 4, Jets 2

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

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

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