Ricky Dimon
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We are wrapping up the week on the NHL ice with a sizable 8-game slate on Sunday. The Penguins and Hurricanes will get things started at 1:00 pm on NHL Network before the next 7 contests are aired on ESPN+. Among the other teams in action are the Panthers, Rangers, Stars, Wild, Oilers, and Golden Knights.
Let’s take a look at our 3-team mega parlay for Sunday’s games.
Islanders -1.5 (-105)
Blue Jackets -1.5 (+145)
Sharks ML (+140)
Parlay odds: +1048
For this parlay we are going with two favorites on the puck and one on the money line. Let’s break down each of the three legs one by one.
Islanders -1.5 over Canadiens (-105)
Montreal has had a couple of decent showings under interim coach Martin St. Louis and the Canadiens have been outshot just once in St. Louis’ first 4 games. They lost 2-1 to the Blue Jackets but got only their 3rd win in 3 months on Thursday against the Blues. Teams that play the Canadiens are likely taking note that they may not be able to roll over Montreal as easily now, but if there is a coach who can make the necessary adjustments, it’s Barry Trotz. The Islanders beat the Canadiens 6-2 earlier this season but will be ready for more of a fight this time around. New York’s strength is containment and minimizing opponents’ high-percentage offensive chances. That is a key component of Trotz-coached teams. The Isles will emphasize defense and keep Montreal from generating much offense. As pesky as Montreal has been in St. Louis’ first 4 games as head coach, it still has 2 losses of 2+ goals in that span.
Check out our Islanders vs Canadiens preview
Blue Jackets -1.5 over Sabres (+145)
The Sabres are a respectable 2-2-1 in February, but Columbus has defeated Buffalo twice this season and that should become 3 in a row. The Blue Jackets are playing well, with 4 wins in their last 5 games and 6 out of their last 8. Their only 2 losses over those 8 games have come to Calgary, which is top of the Pacific Division, and Atlantic leader Florida. Despite the Sabres having played pesky hockey of late, they are on the 2nd game of a back-to-back and are more vulnerable in such games (1-4-4 this season). This should not be especially competitive.
Check out all our NHL previews and picks for Sunday
Sharks ML over Golden Knights (+140)
San Jose has very little to play for this season, while Vegas is still in the hunt for the top spot the Pacific Division. Despite the Sharks having won only 2 games in their last 10, they have a good upset shot in this matchup. Vegas got Jack Eichel back this week, but he hasn’t been able to make an impact. Couple that with the loss of Mark Stone and potentially Robin Lehner for another game, and the Sharks have to feel good about their chances. San Jose has a distinct advantage on the penalty kill, in which it is ranked 4th, and in the faceoff circle, where it ranks 9th. If the Sharks can limit Vegas’ chances and get stout goaltending, winning this game is well within reach.
Check out our Sharks vs Golden Knights preview
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