Stretch Run

There are a dozen games set to be played today so I have a lot of picking to do, besides just my nose. I have been removed from the day-to-day scene of the NHL for the past few days, thus my stellar picking record could suffer a blow as a result. Regardless, as always, I will use my gut along with some small bits of relevant information here and there to make my choice. So lets see what we have...

Atlanta @ Boston - The Bruins we able to put an end to their 4 game losing streak two nights ago in a 2-0 win in Ottawa. However, the coaching staff have switched up the lines and it was pretty obvious against the Sens. The B's are out of whack. The Thrashers aren't playing great either but sit in second place in the Southeast. Both teams will look to head into the break on a positive note and given the B's are at home, they get the edge and win 3-2.

Toronto @ NY Islanders - This is going to be a very interesting game. Both teams have been all over the map this season, winning some great games and losing some pretty bad ones. I will stick with the home team as the Islanders pull out a 4-2 win.

Florida @ NY Rangers - The Rangers have lost their last five games at home and have not lost six in a row since 1993. The Panthers' goalie, Tomas Vokoun is 3-0-1 with a 1.44 GAA in his last four starts against NY. Clearly, one streak will come to an end. Rangers win 2-1.

Ottawa @ Pittsburgh - The Pens will surely not lose a second straight at home, will they? As bad as Boston looked on Monday night, Ottawa could not take advantage. Pens entertain the home crowd and win 5-3.

Buffalo @ Washington - This will be a great game, a measuring stick for both teams, and a playoff preview...all in one. Both are red hot and have split the season series 1-1 so far. I give the edge to Buffalo because of the recent form of goalie Ryan Miller. The Sabres will again ride him to victory 3-1.

Montreal @ Carolina - Montreal wins 4-2. I have no explanation. Montreal is better and Carolina is struggling.

Edmonton @ Minnesota - Both are hovering on the edge of playoff contention. If the Wild can keep the goals down, they have a chance to win. If the Oilers score more than three, they will win. Edmonton wins 5-2.

Philadelphia @ Tampa Bay - The Flyers will look past this game to their game against the Bruins in Fenway. Despite the leadership that is loaded throughout the team, the Flyers have struggled this year and will have a hard time challenging the Bolts. TB wins 6-3.

Chicago @ Detroit - The torch will be passed in this symbolic game from the once-dominant Wings to the younger and energetic 'Hawks. But the 'Hawks will need one more lesson to learn, never underestimate your opponent. The 'Wings walk out with the win 4-3.

Columbus @ Dallas - Dallas had a rough road trip last week and they will get back on form against the Blue Jackets. This works out well for the Stars heading into break, they win 5-1.

Anaheim @ Phoenix - The Coyotes seem to win the games they shouldn't and lose the ones they should win. Since they have been playing well, and are at home, and have a hot goalie, they should win. Thus, they will lose. Ducks win 3-2.

St. Louis @ Calgary - The Flames impress the home crowd and win 4-1.

I am feeling bold today and my predictions are decidedly one-sided for the most part. With some many games to pick, my 30-20 record could look very different tomorrow.