NHL Hockey Free Pick: New Jersey Devils vs Philadelphia Flyers
Hockey betting fans sure are getting their money’s worth from the free nhl picks we give out here at Capperspicks.com.
Team records:
New Jersey: 36-19-2
Philadelphia: 28-25-3
Tonight, 7:00 p.m. ET
Sportsbook odds: Devils +100, Flyers -120
It’s been an interesting week for New Jersey. Lost in the shuffle of the Ilya Kovalchuk hoopla: Martin Brodeur’s mini slump. The legendary Devils netminder quietly hasn’t been himself of late. Not only has he allowed at least three goals in four straight starts, he’s been caught napping, allowing uncharacteristic soft goals. Partially due to Marty’s struggles, the powerhouse Devils have lost five straight games.
Overall, the Flyers have fallen short of expectations in 2009-10. Mike Richards and Jeff Carter are having off years; Claude Giroux and Braydon Coburn haven’t really grown; Chris Pronger’s presence has even reportedly disrupted the locker room. That said, the Flyers are surviving under Peter Laviolette, staying competitive over the last two months. One surprising reason for their success is Ray Emery. He’s been more than competent of late, allowing two or fewer goals in five of his last six starts and posting two shutouts over that span.
There’s no doubt that Ilya Kovalchuk will have his day in the Swamp and jumpstart the offense – especially on the power play. But the Devils – and Brodeur – may not find their rhythm until they return home. Travelling to the hostile Wachovia Center and facing a hot goalie may be too much for New Jersey.
NHL Betting Trends:
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Philadelphia’s last 6 games
Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against New Jersey
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Philadelphia’s last 5 games when playing at home against New Jersey
Philadelphia is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of New Jersey’s last 7 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New Jersey’s last 5 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of New Jersey’s last 8 games when playing Philadelphia
New Jersey is 17-8 SU in its last 25 games when playing Philadelphia
Pick: Flyers -120
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Shea Matthews lives and breathes sports. He made the transition from athlete to sports journalist at a young age, writing in TV & national newspapers. He now applies his knowledge to sports betting and handicapping every day, and shares his winning picks with the world.