Pittsburgh Penguins at Columbus Blue Jackets (+108, 5.5)
Looks like the defending champs are going to have to fight through another big injury. News broke Thursday afternoon that All-Star forward Evgeni Malkin will miss the next two weeks because of a shoulder strain.
This puts Pittsburgh down two of its best players. Defenseman Sergi Gonchar is already on the shelf with a wrist injury.
Of course it’s not like Pittsburgh is starless. Captain Sidney Crosby reminded NHL fans just how dominant he can be after notching a hat trick against the Habs Wednesday night.
Columbus, with the advantage of the last change, will send out its checking line every time Crosby touches the ice. Look for the Jackets to have an easier time containing Pittsburgh’s offensive attack on Friday.
Pick: Under 5.5
Colorado Avalanche at San Jose Sharks (-177, 5.5)
The Avs have a league-high 22 points and have won eight of their last nine games, six of which were on the road. Despite their blazing hot start, bookmakers aren’t moving their odds dramatically. Colorado has been an underdog in all but one of its games this season.
Of course, there are good reasons no one saw this kind of streak coming from the Avalanche. They finished at the bottom of the standings last season and didn’t make any waves with free agent signings in the offseason.
They’re getting the job done with overachieving youngsters and a goalie standing on his head.
Craig Anderson is making the most of his first chance to be a starting goalie in the NHL. He’s already registered two shutouts for the Avs and is at the top of the league in goals against average (1.97) and save percentage (.940).
“He’s giving everyone here confidence,” Colorado defenseman Kyle Quincey told the Denver Post. “You know if you make the odd mistake, he’s there to back you up. He’s playing unbelievable.”
Why not ride the hot goalie?
Pick: Colorado +163
