Thursday 10-5-17 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Gulfstream Park West

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 8 - Maiden Claiming - 7.5f on the Turf. Purse: $20000 Class Rating: 64

FOR MAIDENS, TWO YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 119 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $20,000.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks

# 4 A. P. D'ORO 15/1

# 1 EL GUERRERO AZTECA 5/1

# 7 MCMANAMAN 10/1

A. P. D'ORO is my choice and the potential return justifies the unsafe nature of the long odds. Alvarez will almost certainly be able to get this colt to break out early for this event. Look for a decent pace improvement from this equine who enters with second time Lasix today. Displays the look of a money-making play, averaging a solid 59 speed figure which is one of the best in this field. EL GUERRERO AZTECA - Should compete very well in the pace battle which bodes well with this group of horses in this race. MCMANAMAN - Is tough not to look at given the company run in as of late.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Remington Park

Remington Park - Race 9

Exacta / Trifecta / Superfecta (.10 Cent Minimum)


Allowance • 1 Mile • Turf • Ages 3 and up • CR: 85 • Purse: $34,000 • Post: 10:45
(RAIL AT 18 FEET). FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER, TRIAL OR OKLAHOMA BRED ALLOWANCE OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 120 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. (IF MANAGEMENT DEEMS IT NECESSARY TO TAKE THIS RACE OFF THE TURF, IT WILL BE RUN AT A DISTANCE OF 1 MILE ON THE MAIN TRACK.)
Contenders

Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line

Accept
Odds


Race Type: Fast-paced Race. There are many horses that could vie for the early lead. Check on scratches of any of the Front-runners. * KEY ANGLES * MIMI'S MONEY: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. NATALIE'S MISCHIEF: Today is a horse's first or second race on turf, and turf starters from this sire have a win percentage of at least 15 (minimum of 50 starts). Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. MAKE AM ENDS: Horse has the highest average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. Jockey/Trainer combination return on investment is at least +20. ENCHANTING EMBRACE: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or tur f) is at least 50. Horse has a TrackMaster "+" designation or an "L" designation.
9
MIMI'S MONEY
15/1

9/2
3
NATALIE'S MISCHIEF
8/1

6/1
10
MAKE AMENDS
2/1

7/1
6
ENCHANTING EMBRACE
4/1

10/1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Santa Anita - Race #3 - Post: 2:01pm - Maiden Claiming - 6.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $17,000 Class Rating: 84

Rating: 3

#7 GATO DOLCE (ML=5/1)
#12 ROLLS ROYCE DEAL (ML=12/1)
#9 OREJAS (ML=4/1)
#8 SUPREME GIANT (ML=12/1)


GATO DOLCE - I predict an ideal trip. Stalk the front runners, and swing by on the turn. ROLLS ROYCE DEAL - Jockey hops up aloft after getting to know the fine animal by riding last out. That's always a helpful angle. OREJAS - Ran in the last race against a tougher field at Del Mar. The move to a lower class rank should suit him well. This horse is a hot commodity. Claimed in his last two races. SUPREME GIANT - Gelding's finish positions keep getting better with each race. Maybe today's the day. Finished second, but easily runner-up over the third horse. Those types usually run well next time out.

Vulnerable Contenders: #6 EMPIRE RULER (ML=3/1), #1 SOONER BOOMER (ML=6/1), #5 SOUTHERN THUNDER (ML=8/1),

EMPIRE RULER - No picnic to play this racer this time out. Make him show you something in a sprint contest before you bet on him in a race of 6 1/2 furlongs. Don't believe this horse will make an impact in today's event. That last speed figure was disappointing when compared with today's class rating. SOONER BOOMER - A runner should have more early zip at 1 mile to get me going about his chances at 6 1/2 furlongs. A strong thoroughbred that's been running well, but he's been off the track in the mornings recently. The rating last time out doesn't fit very well in this event when I look at the Equibase class figure of today's event. Mark this thoroughbred as a possibly overvalued equine. SOUTHERN THUNDER - Last raced on Aug 19th at Del Mar, finishing sixth. Unlikely to perk up off of that performance in today's race. Hasn't finished in the money in any sprint contests recently. Improbable to see him doing it in today's event either.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#7 GATO DOLCE is going to be the play if we are getting 9/2 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [7,9,12]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 7:00 PM ET, Thursday, October 5, 2017
Where: TD Garden, Boston, Massachusetts

Preview: Predators at Bruins

Gracenote
Oct 4, 2017

The Nashville Predators advanced past the second round for the first time in franchise history in the spring, moving past the Western Conference final before falling just two wins shy of the Stanley Cup title. The Music City representatives look to take the first step on what they hope is another long journey on Thursday when they open the 2017-18 season against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden.

Nashville boasts a potent top line that features 31-goal scoring wings Filip Forsberg and Viktor Arvidsson around center Ryan Johansen, who erupted for 13 points in 14 playoff games before being shut down due to acute compartment syndrome. The Predators' offense takes a hit after this trio, with the team banking on offseason acquisition Nick Bonino (Pittsburgh) paying dividends and Colton Sissons, Kevin Fiala and Pontus Aberg taking the next step in their development to deal with the departures of former captain Mike Fisher (retirement) and fellow forward James Neal (Vegas). While Music City embraced the Predators during their lengthy postseason run, Boston's first playoff appearance in three years was promptly snuffed out by Ottawa in the first round to ignite a summer filled with questions. David Pastrnak (34 goals, 70 points) answered a significant one just before training camp by signing a six-year, $40 million deal.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, FSN Tennessee (Nashville), NESN (Boston)

ABOUT THE PREDATORS (2016-17: 41-29-12, 4th in Central Division): Nashville's strength rests with arguably the best quartet of defensemen in Roman Josi, P.K. Subban, Mattias Ekholm and Ryan Ellis, although Ellis is expected to be sidelined into January with a knee injury. Veteran Alexei Emelin was acquired to provide depth on the back end in front of Pekka Rinne, who overcame a mediocre regular season to excel in the first three rounds of the playoffs. Juuse Saros, 22, could be in for a greater workload if Rinne - who will turn 35 in November - falters this season.

ABOUT THE BRUINS (2016-17: 44-31-7, 3rd in Atlantic Division): Boston openly inserted a healthy dose of youth in its lineup last season and its success in 2017-18 could hinge on how quickly those kids adjust under the direction of coach Bruce Cassidy. "We have some spots available, and that's what you need in today's NHL, to have young guys come in and produce and can carry a bit of the load," said Brad Marchand, who recorded franchise bests in goals (37), assists (46) and points (85) last season. "We definitely have some guys that are going to be able to do that. ... It's going to help us not only this year but the next five or six years." Promising 19-year-old Charlie McAvoy and fellow defenseman Brandon Carlo will be looked upon to log significant minutes to take the load off 40-year-old captain Zdeno Chara.

OVERTIME

1. Former Vezina Trophy winner Tuukka Rask recorded career bests in wins (37) and shutouts (eight) last season for Boston.

2. Johansen, who signed an eight-year, $64 million deal in the summer, has eclipsed 60 points and 20 power-play points in each of his last four seasons.

3. Bruins C Patrice Bergeron, a four-time Selke Trophy winner, will play in his 900th career game on Thursday.

PREDICTION: Predators 3, Bruins 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Nashville at Boston

Nashville

Predators are 14-6 in their last 20 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Predators are 7-3 in their last 10 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Predators are 3-7 in their last 10 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Predators are 2-7 in their last 9 vs. Eastern Conference. Predators are 1-4 in their last 5 road games. Predators are 1-6 in their last 7 vs. Atlantic.

Boston

Bruins are 4-0 in their last 4 vs. Central. Bruins are 8-1 in their last 9 vs. Western Conference. Bruins are 4-1 in their last 5 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Bruins are 1-4 in their last 5 overall. Bruins are 1-4 in their last 5 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Bruins are 1-4 in their last 5 Thursday games. Bruins are 0-5 in their last 5 home games.

OU Trends

Nashville

Under is 6-1-2 in Predators last 9 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 4-1-1 in Predators last 6 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Under is 10-3-4 in Predators last 17 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 3-1-2 in Predators last 6 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 5-2-3 in Predators last 10 Thursday games. Under is 7-3 in Predators last 10 vs. Eastern Conference. Under is 16-7-7 in Predators last 30 overall.

Boston

Under is 5-1 in Bruins last 6 vs. Central. Under is 4-1-1 in Bruins last 6 home games. Under is 4-1-2 in Bruins last 7 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 9-3-2 in Bruins last 14 overall. Under is 3-1-2 in Bruins last 6 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 12-4-2 in Bruins last 18 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Head to Head

• Under is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
• Home team is 12-2 in the last 14 meetings.
• Under is 8-2-1 in the last 11 meetings in Boston.
• Predators are 1-6 in the last 7 meetings in Boston.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 7:00 PM ET, Thursday, October 5, 2017
Where: KeyBank Center, Buffalo, New York

Preview: Canadiens at Sabres

Gracenote
Oct 4, 2017

Claude Julien settles in for his first full season behind the bench with the Montreal Canadiens, who open the campaign on the road against the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday night. Julien steadied the Canadiens over the final two months last season en route to the Atlantic Division title before the team was bounced in the first round of the playoffs.

Montreal made a pair of offseason moves that it expects to ensure success, locking up franchise goaltender Carey Price to an eight-year, $84 million contract extension and adding a burgeoning offensive talent with the acquisition of Jonathan Drouin from Tampa Bay. "There's a lot of things that I think Jonathan can see and do, and we'll continue to work with that," Julien said of Drouin, the No. 3 overall draft pick in 2013. Buffalo made sweeping changes in the organization in the offseason, including the hire of former Sabres defenseman Phil Housley as its new head coach. Housley's hopes for success, and that of the organization's, rest on the shoulders of its young marquee star -- a point driven home when the team signed third-year center Jack Eichel to an NHL-maximum eight-year, $80 million contract on Tuesday.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, RDS, TSN2 (Montreal), MSG-B (Buffalo)

ABOUT THE CANADIENS (2016-17: 47-26-9, 1st in Atlantic Division): Captain Max Pacioretty scored 35 goals last season, the fifth time in six years he has eclipsed 30, but he was limited to one assist as Montreal managed 11 goals in a six-game playoff loss to the New York Rangers. Pacioretty will be paired with the 22-year-old Drouin, who is shifting to center after scoring 21 goals and adding 32 assists last season, with 26 of his 53 points coming on the power play. Drouin's presence allows Alex Galchenyuk, who dipped from 30 goals in 2015-16 to 17 last season, to remain on the wing, while veteran Ales Hemsky was brought in to bolster the offense. Montreal lost three defensemen but inked free agent Karl Alzner to join stud blue-liner Shea Weber in front of star netminder Price, who won 37 of his 62 starts last season.

ABOUT THE SABRES (2016-17: 33-37-12, 8th in Atlantic Division): Eichel, taken one spot behind Edmonton's Connor David in the 2015 draft, missed the first 21 games last season due to injury but matched his rookie total of 24 goals while collecting 57 points in 61 games. Ex-Sabres captain Jason Pominville was brought back to join an offense that features 28-goal scorer Evander Kane, Ryan O'Reilly (20) and Kyle Okposo (19), while there were a number of changes along the blue line. Marco Sandella was acquired along with Pominville in a trade with Minnesota to join former Canadiens defenseman Nathan Beaulieu and Russian signee Victor Antipin. Robin Lehner had a 2.68 goals-against average and .920 save percentage in his first full season as starter and will be backed up by Chad Johnson, who started 40 games for Buffalo in 2015-16.

OVERTIME

1. Montreal has had its struggles with Buffalo over the past two seasons, winning five of nine meetings (5-3-1).

2. Eichel has yet to score a goal in eight career matchups against Montreal.

3. The teams swung a minor trade Wednesday, with Montreal sending D Zach Redmond to Buffalo in exchange for F Nicolas Deslauriers.

PREDICTION: Canadiens 3, Sabres 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Montreal at Buffalo

W/L Trends

Montreal

Canadiens are 12-4 in their last 16 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Canadiens are 11-4 in their last 15 road games. Canadiens are 8-3 in their last 11 vs. Atlantic. Canadiens are 3-7 in their last 10 Thursday games. Canadiens are 1-5 in their last 6 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Canadiens are 1-8 in their last 9 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game.

Buffalo

Sabres are 63-137 in their last 200 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Sabres are 2-5 in their last 7 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game. Sabres are 14-50 in their last 64 Thursday games. Sabres are 1-5 in their last 6 overall. Sabres are 1-5 in their last 6 vs. Eastern Conference.

OU Trends

Montreal

Over is 1-0-3 in Canadiens last 4 Thursday games. Under is 16-3-3 in Canadiens last 22 road games. Under is 4-1-1 in Canadiens last 6 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 4-1 in Canadiens last 5 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game. Under is 4-1 in Canadiens last 5 vs. Atlantic. Under is 20-6-6 in Canadiens last 32 vs. Eastern Conference. Under is 19-6-6 in Canadiens last 31 overall. Under is 14-5-5 in Canadiens last 24 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 15-6-5 in Canadiens last 26 games following a win.

Buffalo

Over is 4-1 in Sabres last 5 home games. Over is 4-1-1 in Sabres last 6 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 12-3-3 in Sabres last 18 games playing on 3 or more days rest.

Head to Head

• Under is 6-2-1 in the last 9 meetings in Buffalo.
• Over is 5-2-4 in the last 11 meetings.
• Canadiens are 7-3 in the last 10 meetings in Buffalo.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 7:00 PM ET, Thursday, October 5, 2017
Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, New York

Preview: Avalanche at Rangers

Gracenote
Oct 4, 2017

The New York Rangers highlighted a summer of change by signing smooth-skating free agent Kevin Shattenkirk to a four-year, $26.6 million contract to calm the waters following the offseason departure of respected defenseman Dan Girardi. Shattenkirk will make his official debut on Broadway as the Rangers open their 2017-18 season against the visiting Colorado Avalanche on Thursday.

"I want to perform. I want to be the guy who can come in here and live up to the hype," the New Rochelle (N.Y.) native told the New York Daily News. Shattenkirk, who collected a career-high 56 points last season with St. Louis and Washington, has recorded at least 25 power-play points in each of his past four seasons and should form a potent defensive pairing with captain Ryan McDonagh (career-high 15 power-play points in 2016-17). While New York saw its season end with a second-round loss to upstart Ottawa, Colorado's campaign effectively ended shortly after it began and resulted with the fewest points (48) of any NHL team in the salary cap era. The Avalanche finished last in the league in goals per game (2.01), goals allowed (3.37), power-play efficiency (12.6) and second to last on the penalty kill (77.3).

TV: 7 p.m. ET, Altitude (Colorado), MSG (New York)

ABOUT THE AVALANCHE (2016-17: 22-56-4, 7th in Central Division): Potential trade pieces Matt Duchene and captain Gabriel Landeskog remained with the club during last year's dismal campaign, although they likely will be hot topics on the rumor mill prior to this season's trade deadline. Mikko Rantanen's 20 goals led the way for Colorado, which needs more on the offensive front from former top overall picks Nathan MacKinnon (team-best 37 assists, 53 points) and Nail Yakupov (three goals) as well as second-overall selection Landeskog (18 goals). Colin Wilson, who was the seventh overall pick in 2008, has just one 20-goal season in his career. Tyson Jost, who was the club's first-round pick in 2016, is aiming to take a big step forward after scoring one goal in just six games last season.

ABOUT THE RANGERS (2016-17: 48-28-6, 4th in Metropolitan Division): New York boasts substantial depth as opposed to individual stars on offense, with Chris Kreider (club-high 28 goals), Mats Zuccarello (team-leading 44 assists, 59 points), Kevin Hayes (49 points) and Mika Zibanejad (37 points). The 33-year-old Rick Nash (23 goals) enters the final season of a four-year deal that pays the him $7.8 million, second only to Henrik Lundqvist. The former Vezina Trophy winner has seen his goals-against average rise and his save percentage go down in each of the last past three seasons. Offseason acquisition Ondrej Pavelec will serve as Lundqvist's backup after Antti Raanta and top-line center Derek Stepan were shuffled to Arizona for the seventh overall pick in the 2017 draft (center Lias Andersson) and defensive prospect Anthony DeAngelo.

OVERTIME

1. Colorado's former Vezina Trophy finalist Semyon Varlamov, who is returning from a hip surgery, will be put to the test in short order behind a leaky defense that yielded a league-worst 276 goals.

2. Shattenkirk was selected with the 14th overall pick of the 2007 draft by the Avalanche, with whom he played in 46 games during the 2010-11 season.

3. Colorado claimed former Dallas D Patrik Nemeth on waivers Tuesday.

PREDICTION: Rangers 5, Avalanche 1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Colorado at NY Rangers

W/L Trends

Colorado

Avalanche are 5-11 in their last 16 vs. Eastern Conference. Avalanche are 4-9 in their last 13 vs. Metropolitan. Avalanche are 16-39 in their last 55 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Avalanche are 7-20 in their last 27 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Avalanche are 13-38 in their last 51 road games. Avalanche are 5-16 in their last 21 Thursday games. Avalanche are 6-20 in their last 26 games following a win. Avalanche are 11-44 in their last 55 overall.

NY Rangers

Rangers are 4-1 in their last 5 vs. Central. Rangers are 4-1 in their last 5 home games. Rangers are 10-3 in their last 13 Thursday games. Rangers are 44-21 in their last 65 vs. Western Conference. Rangers are 0-4 in their last 4 games playing on 3 or more days rest.

OU Trends

Colorado

Over is 4-0-1 in Avalanche last 5 games following a win. Over is 5-1-2 in Avalanche last 8 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 4-1 in Avalanche last 5 overall. Over is 4-1-1 in Avalanche last 6 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Over is 3-1-1 in Avalanche last 5 vs. Eastern Conference. Under is 3-1-2 in Avalanche last 6 vs. Metropolitan. Over is 3-1-1 in Avalanche last 5 Thursday games. Over is 5-2 in Avalanche last 7 road games.

NY Rangers

Over is 3-0-2 in Rangers last 5 overall. Over is 5-1 in Rangers last 6 vs. Central. Under is 4-1-2 in Rangers last 7 home games. Under is 3-1-2 in Rangers last 6 Thursday games. Over is 8-3-2 in Rangers last 13 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Under is 5-2-1 in Rangers last 8 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 9-4 in Rangers last 13 vs. Western Conference.

Head to Head

• Avalanche are 10-4 in the last 14 meetings in New York.
• Avalanche are 1-4 in the last 5 meetings.
• Road team is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 7:30 PM ET, Thursday, October 5, 2017
Where: Canadian Tire Centre, Ottawa, Ontario

Preview: Capitals at Senators

Gracenote
Oct 4, 2017

It appears the Washington Capitals have nowhere to go but down -- at least where the regular season is concerned. The past two seasons have ended in disappointment for the Capitals after claiming the Presidents' Trophy twice, providing a tough act to follow as they open the 2017-18 season on the road at the Ottawa Senators on Thursday night.

Washington rolled up 111 wins over the past two seasons before being eliminated in the second round of the playoffs both times by eventual Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh, but the players are not buying into the predictions of a decline. "As a player, you can really feel from the outside (people) don't have high expectations, but at the same time, we still have high expectations of ourselves as players," center Nicklas Backstrom said. The Senators actually may have a more difficult sequel than the Capitals after their stunning run to the Eastern Conference finals, where they pushed the Penguins to double overtime in Game 7. Superstar defenseman and captain Erik Karlsson was not placed on injured reserve but will not be available for the season opener while he continues to recover from foot surgery in mid-June.

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, NBC Sports Washington, RDS2, TSN5 (Ottawa)

ABOUT THE CAPITALS (2016-17: 55-19-8, 1st in Metropolitan Division): Captain Alex Ovechkin dipped to 33 goals after three consecutive 50-goal campaigns, but he still tied for the league high with 17 power-play tallies. Washington lost a pair of 24-goal scorers in Marcus Johansson and Justin Williams. Still, there is plenty of offensive talent -- Backstrom had 23 goals and was second in the league with 63 assists while T.J. Oshie (33 goals) and Evgeny Kuznetsov (59 points) are dangerous attackers. The biggest concern is on a blue line that saw the departures of Kevin Shattenkirk, Karl Alzner and Nate Schmidt, leaving Dmitry Orlov, Matt Niskanen and John Carlson at the top defensemen. Fortunately for the Capitals, the last line of defense is manned by Braden Holtby, who is coming off three straight 40-win seasons.
ABOUT THE SENATORS (2016-17: 44-28-10, 2nd in Atlantic Division): Karlsson revealed that half his ankle bone was removed during the June surgery, so all eyes will be on the player who led the team with 71 points in the regular season before collecting 18 points in 19 postseason contests. Kyle Turris, Mike Hoffman and Mark Stone each scored at least 22 goals, but Ottawa will be expecting more from Bobby Ryan and Jean-Gabriel Pageau, who combined for 25 tallies in the regular season before lighting it up in the playoffs. Marc Methot's departure left a hole on the blue line that was plugged with the signing of veteran Johnny Oduya. Goaltender Craig Anderson had a trying season off the ice while his wife battled cancer, but he registered five shutouts in only 40 starts and has one of the league's top backups in Mike Condon.

OVERTIME

1. Washington's power play was tied for third in the league last season, converting on 23.1 percent of its chances.

2. Anderson is 11-7-1 with a 2.32 goals-against average versus Washington.

3. Capitals F Tom Wilson received a four-game suspension for a boarding incident in the preseason finale.

PREDICTION: Capitals 4, Senators 1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Washington at Ottawa

W/L Trends

Washington

Capitals are 4-1 in their last 5 road games. Capitals are 53-15 in their last 68 vs. Atlantic. Capitals are 37-16 in their last 53 vs. Eastern Conference. Capitals are 36-16 in their last 52 Thursday games. Capitals are 42-19 in their last 61 overall. Capitals are 35-16 in their last 51 games following a win. Capitals are 41-19 in their last 60 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game. Capitals are 55-26 in their last 81 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Capitals are 1-8 in their last 9 games playing on 3 or more days rest.

Ottawa

Senators are 5-1 in their last 6 home games. Senators are 6-2 in their last 8 games following a loss of 3 or more goals. Senators are 5-2 in their last 7 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game.

OU Trends

Washington

Under is 4-0 in Capitals last 4 Thursday games. Under is 5-1 in Capitals last 6 games following a win. Under is 5-1 in Capitals last 6 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game. Under is 5-2-1 in Capitals last 8 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 15-6-6 in Capitals last 27 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Under is 17-7-2 in Capitals last 26 vs. Eastern Conference.

Ottawa

Under is 4-1 in Senators last 5 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Under is 18-5-3 in Senators last 26 Thursday games. Under is 3-1-1 in Senators last 5 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 3-1-1 in Senators last 5 home games. Over is 5-2-4 in Senators last 11 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 5-2-1 in Senators last 8 following a loss of 3 or more goals. Under is 63-30-6 in Senators last 99 vs. Metropolitan.

Head to Head

• Capitals are 5-1 in the last 6 meetings.
• Under is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings in Ottawa.
• Under is 17-6 in the last 23 meetings.
• Home team is 24-9 in the last 33 meetings.
• Capitals are 5-11 in the last 16 meetings in Ottawa.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 7:30 PM ET, Thursday, October 5, 2017
Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan

Preview: Wild at Red Wings

Gracenote
Oct 4, 2017

A noteworthy milestone and an era came to an end in April for the Detroit Red Wings, who will open the 2017-18 season -- and Little Caesars Arena -- against the visiting Minnesota Wild on Thursday night. The new venue could be the main attraction this season for the Red Wings, who had their 25-season playoff run halted in April.

"The new arena looks amazing, even on the ice, from the players’ view," forward Tomas Tatar told the Detroit Free Press. "I think people will enjoy it a lot. It’s great to be here. We can’t be more happy.” The Red Wings, who played nearly 40 years at venerable Joe Louis Arena, struggled in all areas last season and barely avoiding finishing in last place in the Atlantic Division. Conversely, the Wild set a franchise record for wins (49) last season but were drummed out of the playoffs in the first round for the third time in five years, prompting coach Bruce Boudreau's “Good Isn’t Good Enough” mantra. “Because we’re always good,” said Boudreau. “We want to strive to be better than good. We want to be great. ... We have a team that’s built to win.”

TV: 7:30 p.m. NBC Sports Network

ABOUT THE WILD (2016-17: 49-25-8, 2nd in Central Division): Minnesota possesses a solid blend of strong veteran leadership and young emerging talent, with nine players producing at least 40 points last season and five collecting between 56 and 69 points. Leading scorer Mikael Granland established career bests with 26 goals and 43 assists and is part of a No. 2 line featuring captain Mikko Koivu (58 points) and Jason Zucker (47 points). Zach Parise's back woes are a concern on the top unit, which received a combined 53 goals from Eric Staal and Nino Niederreiter, while offseason acquisitions Tyler Ennis, Marcus Foligno and Matt Cullen add depth to the lineup. Ryan Suter and Jared Spurgeon head a defensive corps that lost Marco Scandella to a trade while goaltender Devan Dubnyk is coming off a career-best 40-win campaign.

ABOUT THE RED WINGS (2016-17: 33-36-13, 7th in Atlantic Division): One obvious trouble spot for Detroit is an offense that ranked 26th in the league last season, with captain Henrik Zetterberg (68) the only player to surpass 50 points and Tatar (25) the only 20-goal scorer. The punchless attack was exacerbated by the woes at the other end of the ice -- Petr Mrazek stumbled badly with an 18-21-9 record and woeful 3.04 goals-against average and has fallen behind 33-year-old Jimmy Howard, who posted a 2.10 GAA during an injury-plagued campaign. Defenseman Trevor Daley was the lone offseason addition of note and joins a blue-line corps that includes longtime stalwart Niklas Kronwall, who's playing on creaky knees. Detroit needs to get third-year center Dylan Larkin to show the offensive promise of his 2015-16 rookie season.

OVERTIME

1. Parise will miss at least the first two games of the season, general manager Chuck Fletcher said.

2. Red Wings F Andreas Athanasiou, an 18-goal scorer last season, remains unsigned and is mulling playing in Europe.

3. Minnesota signed F Daniel Winnik to a one-year contract on Wednesday.

PREDICTION: Wild 3, Red Wings 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Minnesota at Detroit

W/L Trends

Minnesota

Wild are 6-1 in their last 7 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Wild are 13-3 in their last 16 vs. Atlantic. Wild are 14-4 in their last 18 Thursday games. Wild are 3-7 in their last 10 road games. Wild are 3-7 in their last 10 games following a win. Wild are 2-6 in their last 8 vs. Eastern Conference. Wild are 1-4 in their last 5 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Wild are 1-4 in their last 5 overall. Wild are 0-4 in their last 4 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Detroit

Red Wings are 4-1 in their last 5 vs. Western Conference. Red Wings are 7-15 in their last 22 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Red Wings are 2-5 in their last 7 overall. Red Wings are 1-4 in their last 5 games following a win. Red Wings are 1-5 in their last 6 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Red Wings are 1-5 in their last 6 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game.

OU Trends

Minnesota

Under is 5-1 in Wild last 6 overall. Over is 5-1-1 in Wild last 7 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Under is 5-1 in Wild last 6 road games. Under is 8-2 in Wild last 10 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 4-1 in Wild last 5 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 23-7-2 in Wild last 32 games following a win. Under is 5-2 in Wild last 7 Thursday games. Over is 20-8-9 in Wild last 37 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game. Under is 20-8-8 in Wild last 36 vs. Atlantic.

Detroit

Over is 4-0 in Red Wings last 4 Thursday games. Under is 7-1-1 in Red Wings last 9 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 3-1-2 in Red Wings last 6 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Under is 3-1-1 in Red Wings last 5 games following a win. Under is 5-2 in Red Wings last 7 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 7-3-1 in Red Wings last 11 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 9-4-1 in Red Wings last 14 home games.

Head to Head

• Home team is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
• Over is 5-1-1 in the last 7 meetings in Detroit.
• Over is 6-2-4 in the last 12 meetings.
• Wild are 16-35-3 in the last 54 meetings.
• Wild are 7-19-1 in the last 27 meetings in Detroit.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 8:30 PM ET, Thursday, October 5, 2017
Where: United Center, Chicago, Illinois

Preview: Penguins at Blackhawks

Gracenote
Oct 5, 2017

The Chicago Blackhawks have plenty to prove after a surprisingly early exit from the 2017 playoffs and look to get off to a strong start when they host the defending Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday. The Blackhawks won the Central Division last season before scoring just three goals while being swept by Nashville in the first round of the postseason.

Chicago brought back some familiar faces as they signed free-agent forward Patrick Sharp, who scored at least 30 goals four times for the Blackhawks from 2007-14 and has 599 career points, and re-acquired left wing Brandon Saad to play on a line with captain Jonathan Toews. Chicago also shuffled its defense behind Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook, with Cody Franson and Connor Murphy added to the mix, and will be tested right away by a potent Pittsburgh offense that features former Hart Trophy winners Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin and led the league in goals last season. The Penguins rallied from a two-goal deficit in the third period before losing to St. Louis 5-4 in overtime on Wednesday after raising their second straight championship banner to the rafters. Crosby registered a goal and an assist to lead four players with multiple points in the opener for Pittsburgh, which plays six of its first nine games on the road.

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, NBCSN, Sportsnet 360, Sportsnet 1, AT&T SportsNet-Pittsburgh

ABOUT THE PENGUINS (0-0-1): Crosby and linemates Conor Sheary (one goal) and Jake Guentzel (two assists) picked up where they left off last season with a five-point night in the opener while Malkin and Bryan Rust each added two assists. Pittsburgh received a goal from both Justin Schultz and Olli Maatta while fellow defenseman Matt Hunwick made his Penguins debut. Matt Murray, who has won the Stanley Cup in each of his first two NHL seasons, turned aside 29 shots Wednesday and is being backed up by veteran Antti Niemi after Marc-Andre Fleury was selected by Vegas in the expansion draft.

ABOUT THE BLACKHAWKS (2016-17: 50-23-9, 1st in Central): Toews scored 21 goals and posted a plus-7 rating last season, which both rate as the worst of his 10-year career, and hopes to regain his standing among the league’s top centers. “I put a lot of pressure on myself, especially the last couple of years,” Toews, who is expected to play despite a lower-body injury, told the Chicago Tribune. "I think I make things harder on myself and my linemates. … (I need to) play loose and have fun and just let things happen.” Patrick Kane led the team in scoring with 89 points last season and is likely to skate on a line with Nick Schmaltz and Ryan Hartman to start the campaign.

OVERTIME

1. The Blackhawks have beaten the Penguins six straight times, scoring nine of the 11 goals in the two matchups last season.

2. Pittsburgh D Kris Letang, who returned from neck surgery in the season opener, is one assist shy of 300 for his career.

3. Chicago RW Marian Hossa is expected to miss the season due to a skin disorder.

PREDICTION: Blackhawks 4, Penguins 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Pittsburgh at Chicago

W/L Trends

Pittsburgh

Penguins are 23-9 in their last 32 Thursday games. Penguins are 50-24 in their last 74 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Penguins are 35-17 in their last 52 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Penguins are 57-28 in their last 85 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Penguins are 3-12 in their last 15 games following OT on the previous day. Penguins are 1-4 in their last 5 games playing on 0 days rest.

Chicago

Blackhawks are 4-0 in their last 4 vs. Metropolitan. Blackhawks are 58-17 in their last 75 vs. a team with a winning % below .400. Blackhawks are 20-7 in their last 27 games following a win. Blackhawks are 9-4 in their last 13 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Blackhawks are 1-5 in their last 6 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Blackhawks are 0-8 in their last 8 overall. Blackhawks are 0-8 in their last 8 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.

OU Trends

Pittsburgh

Under is 9-1 in Penguins last 10 games playing on 0 days rest. Under is 3-1-1 in Penguins last 5 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Under is 3-1-1 in Penguins last 5 road games. Under is 19-7 in Penguins last 26 games following OT on the previous day. Over is 20-8-4 in Penguins last 32 Thursday games. Under is 7-3-2 in Penguins last 12 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 46-22-8 in Penguins last 76 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Chicago

Under is 2-0-4 in Blackhawks last 6 overall. Under is 5-0-1 in Blackhawks last 6 Thursday games. Under is 4-0-1 in Blackhawks last 5 home games. Over is 4-0-1 in Blackhawks last 5 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 5-0 in Blackhawks last 5 vs. a team with a winning % below .400. Under is 31-10-12 in Blackhawks last 53 vs. Metropolitan. Under is 12-4-5 in Blackhawks last 21 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Over is 27-11-19 in Blackhawks last 57 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Head to Head

• Under is 9-2 in the last 11 meetings in Chicago.
• Under is 12-3-2 in the last 17 meetings.
• Home team is 7-3 in the last 10 meetings.
• Penguins are 0-5 in the last 5 meetings in Chicago.
• Penguins are 0-6 in the last 6 meetings.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 10:00 PM ET, Thursday, October 5, 2017
Where: Honda Center, Anaheim, California

Preview: Coyotes at Ducks

Gracenote
Oct 4, 2017

The Anaheim Ducks' run of five straight Pacific Division titles could be in jeopardy this season if the club is unable to overcome significant injuries as well as fend off the challenge of Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers. Captain Ryan Getzlaf and the Ducks look to begin the new season on the right foot Thursday as they host the Arizona Coyotes at Honda Center.

"The ultimate goal is to build an organization where you don't have to rebuild," Getzlaf told the Orange County Register. The 32-year-old Getzlaf meshed well with Patrick Eaves upon the latter being acquired from Dallas at last season's trade deadline, so much so that the unrestricted free agent Eaves promptly signed a three-year contract extension. While the Ducks boast a familiar look at the top of the division, the Coyotes will feature a new one with the absence of the longtime face of the franchise in Shane Doan (retired) as well as former Pittsburgh assistant Rick Tocchet taking over the coaching responsibilities from Dave Tippett. Goaltender Antti Raanta, who was acquired with top-line center Derek Stepan in an offseason trade with the New York Rangers, will be Arizona's starter after it traded All-Star Mike Smith to Calgary.

TV: 10 p.m. ET, FSN Arizona, PRIME (Anaheim)

ABOUT THE COYOTES (2016-17: 30-42-10, 6th in Pacific Division): Max Domi sounded like a kid at Christmas with two new presents when he discussed the additions of Stepan and Raanta. "Those guys have a lot of experience and have played on some good hockey teams. Bringing that to our team and our organization is going to be huge," Domi said, per ESPN. "I think Rants is exciting too, just because that guy has been itching to be a starter for his whole career and now he has an opportunity to do it." Veteran defensemen Niklas Hjalmarsson (Chicago) and Jason Demers (Florida) were acquired in the offseason and add to an already dynamic back end that features offensive-minded Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Alex Goligoski.

ABOUT THE DUCKS (2016-17: 46-23-13, 1st in Pacific Division): Injuries are once again the name of the game in Anaheim, which will be without center Ryan Kesler (hip) until at least Christmas and defensemen Hampus Lindholm (shoulder) and Sami Vatanen (shoulder) for the first few weeks of the season. Blue-liners Cam Fowler and Josh Manson are expected to log considerable minutes on the Ducks' back end in front of All-Star goaltender John Gibson (NHL fourth-best 2.22 GAA and .924 save percentage), who enjoyed a solid season before a lower-body injury forced him into the role of a spectator as Anaheim fell to Nashville in the Western Conference finals. Veteran Ryan Miller is an upgrade over Jonathan Bernier in the backup netminding role and should provide Gibson with well-timed breathers throughout the season.

OVERTIME

1. Anaheim's Rickard Rakell, who will shift from left wing to center in lieu of Kesler's injury, scored a team-leading 33 goals last season after mustering just 29 in his previous two.

2. Arizona saw leading scorer Radim Vrbata (20 goals, 35 assists) sign with the Florida Panthers in the offseason.

3. Coyotes D Jakob Chychrun is on injured reserve as he recovers from knee surgery in August.

PREDICTION: Ducks 5, Coyotes 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Arizona at Anaheim

W/L Trends

Arizona

Coyotes are 4-0 in their last 4 vs. Pacific. Coyotes are 42-86 in their last 128 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Coyotes are 17-36 in their last 53 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Coyotes are 18-39 in their last 57 Thursday games. Coyotes are 4-9 in their last 13 overall. Coyotes are 17-39 in their last 56 vs. Western Conference. Coyotes are 7-19 in their last 26 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Coyotes are 14-45 in their last 59 road games. Coyotes are 1-4 in their last 5 games following a win.

Anaheim

Ducks are 4-1 in their last 5 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Ducks are 7-2 in their last 9 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Ducks are 39-16 in their last 55 vs. Pacific. Ducks are 9-4 in their last 13 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Ducks are 9-4 in their last 13 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Ducks are 19-9 in their last 28 overall. Ducks are 19-9 in their last 28 vs. Western Conference. Ducks are 35-17 in their last 52 Thursday games. Ducks are 35-17 in their last 52 home games.

OU Trends

Arizona

Under is 5-0 in Coyotes last 5 road games. Under is 39-9-5 in Coyotes last 53 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 4-1-1 in Coyotes last 6 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 4-1 in Coyotes last 5 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 7-2 in Coyotes last 9 overall. Over is 7-2 in Coyotes last 9 Thursday games. Under is 8-3-4 in Coyotes last 15 vs. Pacific. Under is 15-6-5 in Coyotes last 26 games following a win. Under is 30-14-8 in Coyotes last 52 vs. Western Conference.

Anaheim

Over is 2-0-2 in Ducks last 4 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 6-1-4 in Ducks last 11 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Over is 4-1-3 in Ducks last 8 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 4-1 in Ducks last 5 vs. Pacific. Under is 5-2-3 in Ducks last 10 Thursday games. Over is 15-6-7 in Ducks last 28 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Head to Head

• Over is 5-2-1 in the last 8 meetings.
• Home team is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings.
• Coyotes are 4-10 in the last 14 meetings in Anaheim.
• Coyotes are 1-5 in the last 6 meetings.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 10:00 PM ET, Thursday, October 5, 2017
Where: Staples Center, Los Angeles, California

Preview: Flyers at Kings

Gracenote
Oct 5, 2017

The Los Angeles Kings hope to take advantage of a team playing for the second time in two nights when they open their 2017-18 season against the visiting Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday. Los Angeles has had no success since winning its second Stanley Cup in three years in 2014, sandwiching a pair of non-playoff seasons around one in which it made a first-round exit.

The Kings are counting on a full season from former Conn Smythe Trophy winner Jonathan Quick, who was limited to 17 games last campaign due to a groin injury suffered in the 2016-17 opener. Philadelphia continues its season-opening four-game road trip after kicking it off with a 5-3 triumph at San Jose on Wednesday. Wayne Simmonds registered his second career hat trick while Jakub Voracek and defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere notched three assists apiece as the Flyers bounced back after squandering 2-0 and 3-2 leads. The club got off to a good start on the power play, converting three of its five opportunities, but it also allowed a pair of man-advantage goals.

TV: 10 p.m. ET, NBC Sports Network

ABOUT THE FLYERS (1-0-0): Philadelphia opened the season with five rookies on its roster, although only three were in the lineup against the Sharks. Robert Hagg, a 22-year-old Swedish defenseman, and 23-year-old left wing Taylor Leier received significant ice time, but all eyes were on Nolan Patrick. The 19-year-old center, who was selected second overall in last June's draft, registered three shots and blocked one while going 5-4 on faceoffs in 13 1/2 minutes of action.

ABOUT THE KINGS (2016-17: 39-35-8, 5th in Pacific): Jeff Carter led the club last season with 32 goals, marking the fourth time he reached the 30-goal plateau in his career and first since netting 36 in 2010-11 with Philadelphia. The Kings had only one other player hit the 20-goal mark as Tanner Pearson scored a career-high 24 in his second full season. More offense will be expected from veteran Mike Cammalleri, who returns to the team with which he spent his first five NHL seasons after recording only 10 goals in 61 games with New Jersey in 2016-17.

OVERTIME

1. Los Angeles' Alec Martinez (lower body) will begin the season on injured reserve and likely be replaced on the roster by fellow D Paul LaDue, who notched eight assists in 22 games last season - his first in the NHL.

2. Michal Neuvirth could get the start in goal for the Flyers after G Brian Elliott made 32 saves in his debut with the team on Wednesday.

3. The Kings will honor the victims of Sunday's tragic shooting in Las Vegas prior to the game and wear a special "CD" sticker on their helmets in memory of team employee Christiana Duarte, who was killed in the incident.

PREDICTION: Kings 4, Flyers 1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Philadelphia at Los Angeles

W/L Trends

Philadelphia

Flyers are 4-1 in their last 5 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game. Flyers are 4-1 in their last 5 vs. Western Conference. Flyers are 10-24 in their last 34 vs. Pacific. Flyers are 4-11 in their last 15 games following a win. Flyers are 7-21 in their last 28 road games. Flyers are 1-4 in their last 5 games playing on 0 days rest.

Los Angeles

Kings are 4-1 in their last 5 Thursday games. Kings are 25-11 in their last 36 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600. Kings are 17-8 in their last 25 vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Kings are 2-7 in their last 9 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Kings are 1-6 in their last 7 games following a win.

OU Trends

Philadelphia

Over is 5-0 in Flyers last 5 games playing on 0 days rest. Under is 8-1-2 in Flyers last 11 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. Over is 4-1 in Flyers last 5 overall. Under is 4-1 in Flyers last 5 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 7-2-1 in Flyers last 10 vs. Western Conference. Under is 17-5-4 in Flyers last 26 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 9-4-2 in Flyers last 15 vs. Pacific.

Los Angeles

Over is 2-0-2 in Kings last 4 overall. Under is 5-1-1 in Kings last 7 vs. Metropolitan. Under is 13-4-6 in Kings last 23 vs. Eastern Conference. Over is 3-1-1 in Kings last 5 vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Under is 3-1-2 in Kings last 6 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game. Over is 12-4-5 in Kings last 21 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Under is 3-1-1 in Kings last 5 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600. Under is 3-1-1 in Kings last 5 games following a win. Under is 20-9-12 in Kings last 41 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 27-13-13 in Kings last 53 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. Under is 57-28-22 in Kings last 107 Thursday games.

Head to Head

• Under is 6-1-3 in the last 10 meetings.
• Flyers are 5-1 in the last 6 meetings in Los Angeles.
• Under is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings in Los Angeles.
• Road team is 10-2 in the last 12 meetings.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jeff Benton

Your Thursday freebie is the Over in tonight's NFL game.

It's hard to envision a scenario where this Patriots-Buccaneers games holds Under the total, as the New England defense has not shown that they are capable to stopping teams through the first 4 games they have played this season.

The Patriots have allowed an average of 32-points per game this season, but they have also been able to score at a just over 32-points per game clip as ALL 4 of the Pats games this season have sailed Over the posted price.

The Bucs have not been as prolific in their scoring, but they have played Overs in their last pair of games, and they have averaged 28-points per game in their first pair of home games this season. While it is not likely that Jameis Winston is going to outgun Tom Brady at this point in his career, I do think it is likely that Winston can get his licks in against this permissive New England stop-unit.

Big, big total, but I do expect some fireworks tonight, and I do expect this one to land Over the total.

Pats-Bucs to open Week 5 with an Over.

3* NEW ENGLAND-TAMPA BAY OVER