As the Pittsburgh Penguins lace up to host the Colorado Avalanche, a low-scoring affair seems to be on the horizon. The Penguins have been struggling to light the lamp at home, averaging a meager 0.2 goals per game over their last five. Furthermore, their power play has been all but nonexistent, with just 0.6 points per game over that same stretch. On the flip side, the Avalanche's offense has been ice cold on the road, with just 0.4 goals per game and a matching 0.4 assists per game over their last five away games. Add to this the Penguins' strong defensive record against the Avalanche, having won their last five confrontations, and it's clear that both teams are set up for a defensive duel, making 'Under 9.5' a smart bet on the Alternate Totals market. It's not about the fireworks; it's about the chess match.
Pittsburgh Penguins vs Colorado Avalanche : Pittsburgh Penguins +3.5 (-1000)
Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing
When the Pittsburgh Penguins hit the ice against the Colorado Avalanche this Tuesday, it's going to be about more than just a hockey match. It's about a clash of titans, about history, and, most importantly, it's about revenge. The Penguins have been in a rough patch lately, with a 0-5 record in their last five home games. But don't let that fool you. When it comes to their head-to-head record with the Avalanche, the Penguins have been nothing short of dominant, boasting an unbeaten 5-0 record. Despite their recent struggles, the Penguins have shown they can outwit, outplay, and outlast the Avalanche. So, while the Avalanche may have had a decent away record recently (3-2), they'll be facing an uphill battle against the Penguins. When the final buzzer sounds, I won't be surprised to see the Penguins triumphant. It's not just a bet, it's a belief in history repeating itself.
Pittsburgh Penguins vs Colorado Avalanche : Colorado Avalanche +3.5 (-2000)
Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing
Look, we all know the Pittsburgh Penguins have been struggling, especially on home ice. They've lost all of their last five games at home, scoring an average of a paltry 0.2 goals per game, and letting in a whopping 3.8. Their overall record isn't much better, sitting at 2-3. But here's the kicker - they've had the Avalanche's number in recent times, winning all five of their most recent matchups.
Now, on the flip side, Colorado isn't exactly lighting it up on the road, with a middling 3-2 record in their last five away games. However, they've managed to keep their goals against average to a manageable 2.
So, when it comes to this game, I'm backing the Avalanche. Despite their recent history against Pittsburgh, I reckon their marginally better defensive record might just be enough to steal this one. With a line set at 3.5, the Avalanche could