NHL 2009.12.29, final 2 picks:
Pittsburgh Penguins @ Buffalo Sabres
Ten days ago, in their last road game, Penguins went to Buffalo to return with a win in OT. Today, we have a equal matchup, as Penguins will go again to Buffalo.
For me, Penguins are more reliable on the road. At least with odds value, as they can win more games on the road an usually have better odds. Penguins are the actual champions and are again contenders to win. One thing that got to know very well to be champions again, it's no learn and improve from recent and equal matchups. It's what will happen tonight. This team got very talent, with Malkin and Crosby, and without any surprise, this team can win any game.
Sabres are making a great season, being strong at home with a 12-5 record. However, they lost the 2 last games at home, including the one to penguins. Despite they can show a good game particularly at home, this team aren't able to face a power offensive teams, as they support their defense as well to win the game. They are always able to score their goals, but needs a strong defense to hold the opponents. Against teams with all starts in offense, players that can with inspiration score even with without being look on.
So, if Penguins really wish to be a contenders, can make the some mistakes they made 10 days ago. They have here a chance to show that they can improve and be betters, and can't miss this one.
Pick: Pittsburgh Penguins 3Way (1X2) +135 (2.35) Bookmaker, +140 (2.40) Goalwin
Columbus Blue Jackets @ New York Islanders
Columbus lost is defense efficiency from last year. This year they are a poor team, playing a poor game, even with a good start. They had 9 games in a row with losses but won last game, yesterday, in Detroit. A strange and tired game, has they went to OT without any goal scored in the game. Despite the 15-18 record, just remember they had a good start, has they are 1-9 in last 10, and with 1.80 goals scored for 3.00 allowed in that time.
Islanders are a youth team that can make good thins when they wish so. They aren't much reliable as a team, because one day they can play an awesome game and won against a contender, and the next game they can lost to the last team in the standings. However, they usually accomplish their goals when they faces a team with a poor defense. Islanders are with 2.39 goals scored at home and 2.67 allowed, it's a negative record, but that is because they can be outscored in some game.
Columbus despite the won in OT last night, isn't enough to turn things, as this is their lone away game this week, and will probably get home, rest and try to cheer up. They are defending badly, something that will give an edge to Islanders, with their young and power forwards. Their offense have no effects in these days, something that will give no problem to Islanders as well.
Pick: New York Islanders 3Way (1X2) +120 (2.20) Bookmaker
