Looking for value on a Saturday card? Of course we all know about the College Hoops card as that’s where most bettors turn. However, those that are looking to pad their bankrolls with even more profits realize that value can be had on a deep Saturday card of NHL action. With 12 games to choose from on a Saturday that promises to be full of “Puck Bucks” let’s take a look at some potential “investment opportunities”:
Tampa Bay @ Atlanta - The hungry road dog could be worth a look here. This is a key match-up in the Southeast Division “free for all” that is shaping up this season. In last place right now, the Lightning could easily end up in first place by season’s end. However, to get there, Tampa Bay knows that a game like this is absolutely critical. The Lightning won their first two games against Atlanta this season but the Thrashers have now taken three straight in this series. That makes this a triple revenge spot here for the Lightning and they’ve got the confidence right now to come into Atlanta and notch the road win. Tampa Bay, after struggling on the road for much of this season, has now won six straight games away from home. Overall, the Lightning have scored 23 goals in their last 7 games. Contrast this with a struggling Atlanta offense that has managed just 5 goals in their last 3 games. There is a reason the odds maker posted such a short price on this game…the Lightning will once again get the job done on the road!
Ottawa vs Montreal - Yes, the Senators may end up being pricey here but we at least want to call this situation to your attention because the Senators could be a money maker in the coming weeks. The Sens already rallied upon the return of Dany Heatley as they are coming off of a 5-4 win versus Florida on Thursday. Now, the Senators will have Daniel Alfredsson back in the lineup on Saturday night. How important is Alfredsson to this team? They were 0-6 without him this season before knocking off the Panthers Thursday. Alfredsson leads the club in both goals and points this season. The Sens will be up for this game since Montreal is in town and certainly the hot Canadiens may help keep this line in check. If this one stays in a playable range it is the right scenario for a big home win for the Senators. The revenge factor is “in play” here for the Senators too since they lost at Montreal 4-3 on Tuesday. The Sens were without Heatley and Alfredsson that night. Much different situation (and result!) tonight!
Colorado @ Vancouver - Colorado has been dealing with plenty of injury issues recently. However, their health situation could improve on Saturday as Paul Stastny is expected to be activated from injured reserve. The amazing thing is the fact that the Avs have been a respectable 16-11-4 in their last 31 games even though injuries have plagued them. Colorado is catching Vancouver at the right time to spring the upset. The Canucks just got back from a road trip to the Southeast and that is a long, long trip! Vancouver did manage to get a come from behind win at Atlanta on Thursday but do not look for a repeat here! The Canucks are simply dealing with too many injuries along the blue line. Until Vancouver’s defense returns to health they are going to be some problems in their own zone. Note that the Canucks had allowed 3 goals or more in 11 of their last 12 games before their surprising win at Atlanta on Thursday. Now, facing an Avs team with a power play that is clicking, the Canucks will face some challenges Saturday. The Avs were already in Vancouver before the Canucks arrived after their long flight back from Canada.
