Picking the winners for Saturday’s NHL contests.

Last weekend I went four for six pushing my record to 20 – 4. Valentine’s proved to be a tough night for NHL sports betting, however, I barely missed going perfect. The Jets squeaked out a win via shootout and the Vancouver @ Calgary game was inches away from going to OT. Tonight brings an interesting slate of games as all teams involved are either playing the 1st or 2nd game of a B2B… with the exception of the Stadium Series matchup between Los Angeles and San Jose. Nights like these are tough to call as goalie situations can be murky. No excuses though! I think it’s about that time to #GETTHATMONEY.

Record: 20 – 4

NY Islanders @ Washington (1230pm ET)

Both of these teams have been outstanding over their past 10 with identical 7 – 3 records. The Islanders have played 5 of their last 6 at home including an impressive 5 – 2 win against the league leading Predators. In that game the Isles managed to put five past stud net minder Pekka Rinne. The Caps on the other hand have played four of their last six on the road and are coming off a 5 – 1 win against the Jets. This is hard game to call but I have to go with the Caps here. First, the game is taking place in the Verizon Center. Second, the play of Braden Holtby cannot be ignored as he has a sparkling 2.15 GAA and .925 SV% this season. Jaroslav Halak on the other hand… not so much. Last, the Great Eight has been on a tear as of late with 16 points in his last 10 games. Things seem to be clicking in Washington… give me the Caps.

Key Stat: Islanders are 3 – 7 in their last 10 meetings in Washington.

Pick: Washington – Home Team Win – H

Nashville @ Philadelphia (1pm ET)

This is a pretty ballsy pick. I mean the Flyers did just lose at home to the league’s worst team, the Buffalo Sabres. Not to mention the Predators are 8 – 2 over their past 10 games. But this is a HUGE game for Philadelphia. They can’t afford to drop anymore points if they plan to make the post-season. There is no doubt that Nashville is a powerhouse this season, however, outside of the Bridgestone Arena the Predators are 14-10-5. I think the Flyers will surprise here and bounce back in this afternoon affair. The Islanders showed that Pekka Rinne is in fact human… two losses in a row for the Predators? I think so.

Key Stat: Home team is 6 – 2 in the last eight meetings.

Pick: Philadelphia – Home Team Win – H

Winnipeg @ Toronto (7pm ET)