In this column, I go through the night’s NHL games and give my reads solely based on lines, odds, betting trends, and how I perceive others perceive the game. It’s the reading of all lines, and I try to keep a free-flowing, train-of-thought approach. The purpose of these reads is to find an edge either in DFS, actual picks, or both. Sometimes, no edge exists — or simply can’t be found. I make it a point to note that, as well. As always, please do your own research and due diligence and play responsibly.
VGK/MIN – The point total has remained low from the start, and the odds have pointed to the under all along. People are now starting to agree, and we don’t usually see that — people moving to the under with no odds changing. The actual game’s odds have been all over the place, and that’s somewhat inherent with a close matchup. I’d have to think the oddsmakers are far more concerned with being wrong on the puckline than the moneyline because of how well it would pay out if VGK were to win by more than 2, so I’m simply going to set this at 3-2 VGK and not expect any more offense than that — because, if it gets higher scoring, there’s a chance VGK pulls away and delivers on that juicy -1.5.
OTT/EDM – A high point total is inherent with the potential that EDM brings, but I also suspect that people are finally starting to