NHL
Saturday, May 3
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Ice picks: Saturday's best NHL bets
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Philadelphia vs. Montreal (-165, 5 1/2)
There is a story in Friday's Montreal Gazette about how Montreal Canadiens fans have given up faith of their team's chances for moving on in the playoffs. That's about right for the Habs. No fans love their team more when they win and none hate their team as much when they lose.
It's been three straight losses for Montreal now and they trail Philly 3-1 in their series. But even though Canadiens supporters are starting to lose hope, oddsmakers haven't. The Canadiens are lofty faves in Game 5 and the odds appear to be moving up. Several books moved the line to -170 and higher after it opened at -165.
Goalie controversy is the biggest concern in Montreal right now with both Carey Price and Jaroslav Halak playing questionably. Halak was named the starter for Game 4 to the surprise of some and he allowed three goals on 25 shots.
Philadelphia is just overall outplaying Montreal, especially early on in games. The Flyers have held a 2-0 lead in all four games of the series so far and that's been killing the Habs despite some strong third periods.
Montreal should be able to get off to a better start in Game 5 with the home crowd back on its side. Don't be surprised to see Carey Price back in goal and - just a hunch - we might see his strongest game of the series yet.
Pick: under 5 1/2
Saturday, May 3
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ice picks: Saturday's best NHL bets
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Philadelphia vs. Montreal (-165, 5 1/2)
There is a story in Friday's Montreal Gazette about how Montreal Canadiens fans have given up faith of their team's chances for moving on in the playoffs. That's about right for the Habs. No fans love their team more when they win and none hate their team as much when they lose.
It's been three straight losses for Montreal now and they trail Philly 3-1 in their series. But even though Canadiens supporters are starting to lose hope, oddsmakers haven't. The Canadiens are lofty faves in Game 5 and the odds appear to be moving up. Several books moved the line to -170 and higher after it opened at -165.
Goalie controversy is the biggest concern in Montreal right now with both Carey Price and Jaroslav Halak playing questionably. Halak was named the starter for Game 4 to the surprise of some and he allowed three goals on 25 shots.
Philadelphia is just overall outplaying Montreal, especially early on in games. The Flyers have held a 2-0 lead in all four games of the series so far and that's been killing the Habs despite some strong third periods.
Montreal should be able to get off to a better start in Game 5 with the home crowd back on its side. Don't be surprised to see Carey Price back in goal and - just a hunch - we might see his strongest game of the series yet.
Pick: under 5 1/2
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