PHOENIX COYOTES @ CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS
Ice Hockey : North America : NHL
Monday, December 5th, 2011, 8:00PM US
(1:00AM GMT)

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PREVIEW

Only a week ago, Phoenix came to Chicago and beat the Blackhawks 4-1. This is a perfect revenge spot for Chicago.

The Chicago Blackhawks are 16-8-3, and have been scoring for fun lately. The Blackhawks have scored at least 4 goals in 7 of their last 8 wins, and now lead the Central Division. In their last 2 games, Chicago has been effective on the PP too, netting 3 times. Their last match saw them beat St. Louis 5-2.

The Phoenix Coyotes are 13-9-3, and since that 4-1 win here against Chicago have lost both their next matches, to the Winnipeg Jets and the Philadelphia Flyers, scoring only twice. Phoenix have not even been able to score with the man advantage, going 0 for 6 in Power Play situations.

Chicago have done very well at home, with an 8-2-2 record so far. Phoenix are 7-4-1 on the road, but have lost 3 of their last 5 road games, which gives us a poor current road form. Coyotes goaltender Mike Smith might just struggle here, as he gave up 4 goals in the 1st period on Saturdays match.

Phoenix have to travel to Nashville to play again tomorrow, while Chicago have the day off. I reckon the situation is one where we will get the better effort from Chicago. Goaltender Corey Crawford is 3-1-1 against the Coyotes with a 2.44GAA, but Phoenix are scoring just 2.64 this season on average.

BETTING VERDICT

I like Chicago here but the ML price including OT just does not appeal. I'll take them to continue their high scoring, leading to a regulation time win at odds over even.

The Pick :

Chicago Blackhawks

HANDICAP BETTING :

Take Chicago -0.5 (regulation) @ 2.10 (Pinnacle)