Tommy Gold NHL 2009/2010 Playoffs Picks

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (21-30-3, -5.99u) 2010.05.10 results recap:

Philadelphia Flyers @ Boston Bruins: Philadelphia Flyers ML +125 (2.25) BetOnline

Philadelphia Flyers @ Boston Bruins: Over 5.5 +120 (2.25) Bookmaker

Pittsburgh Penguins @ Montreal Canadiens: Under 5.5 -135 (1.74) Bookmaker

*One unit each always. We really need a little bit more luck... :|



NHL PLAYOFFS (21-30-3, -5.99u) 2010.05.08 results recap:

Montreal Canadiens @ Pittsburgh Penguins: Pittsburgh Penguins PL -1.5 +115 (2.15) The Greek (2-1: LOSS)
Detroit Red Wings @ San Jose Sharks: San Jose Sharks PL -1.5 +205 (3.05) Bookmaker (2-1: LOSS)

NHL 2010.05.08 finished 0-2 and -2 units lost/2 units risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 187-247-7, -12.48 units lost (434 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 155-185-7, +6.12 units won (340 units risked)

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (22-32-3, -6.74u) 2010.05.11 only pick:

Chicago Blackhawks @ Vancouver Canucks

As we saw in the last game, The Canucks didn't had any problems about leading with pressure. They are since the last game in that bad position of "win or go home". However, the fact is that they were able to lead with it, and get a comfortable win in Chicago to at least delay their elimination. Now, they will play at home, and have the chance to tie the series and take this to game 7.

There is no doubt that is what everyone expects, as NHL fan. In Vancouver, everyone expects to see their team to get a win today, even if they get elimination, it's the only way to keep their hopes alive and even if they get eliminated, ending the home games with a win.

The Blackhawks have been great in their offense this series, particularly in their power plays, that have been the key for both of the wins they achieved at Vancouver. They scored 2 PP goals in the first game at Vancouver and 4 powerplay goals in the second game. Both games were the kind of games that everyone likes to see, 5-2 in the first one and 7-4 in the second one.

Despite being in the lead of the series, their defense has not been one of the keys, as they are allowing 3.4 goals per game in this series. Their offense at road, despite some good games, are not as good as the Canucks at home. They have won all the games at Vancouver this series so far, but as i said, the key was the conversion of the powerplays into goals.

At Vancouver, no one admits the end of this series with a home loss. They didn't won any home game in this series, and are in disadvantage by 3-2 at this point, and only a win can give them the tie and some hopes to go to Chicago try to pass to the final. They just have to be aware that they re giving the edge to the Blackhawks while they make so many faults. If they can reduce their penaltys minutes, they can use their edge in the defense and offense.

They will have a great support tonight, and at home, they can defend much better than they did before, allowing 11 goals in the previous 2 matches. Their offense at home are also one of the best of the league, and they already showed it in Chicago, that if they can control the Blackhawks offense, their offense will never let them down, as they almost always do their job.

Pick: Vancouver Canucks -0.5 +123 (2.23) 5Dimes, Canucks 3Way (1X2) +120 (2.20) Bookmaker

*One unit each always.



NHL PLAYOFFS (22-32-3, -6.74u) 2010.05.10 results recap:

Philadelphia Flyers @ Boston Bruins: Philadelphia Flyers ML +125 (2.25) BetOnline (0-4: WIN)
Philadelphia Flyers @ Boston Bruins: Over 5.5 +120 (2.20) Bookmaker (0-4: LOSS)
Pittsburgh Penguins @ Montreal Canadiens: Under 5.5 -135 (1.74) Bookmaker (4-3: LOSS)

NHL 2010.05.10 finished 1-2 and -0.75 units lost/3 units risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 188-249-7, -13.23 units lost (437 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 156-187-7, +5.37 units won (343 units risked)

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (22-33-3, -7.74u) 2010.05.12 final 4 picks:

Montreal Canadiens @ Pittsburgh Penguins: Montreal Canadiens ML +210 (3.10) Bookmaker

Montreal Canadiens @ Pittsburgh Penguins: Under 5.5 -140 (1.71) Bookmaker

Boston Bruins @ Philadelphia Flyers: Philadelphia Flyers PL -1.5 +120 (2.20) The Greek

Boston Bruins @ Philadelphia Flyers: Over 5 -140 (1.71) Bookmaker

*One unit each always.



Montreal Canadiens @ Pittsburgh Penguins

At this point, no one can easily say that the favorite will win. The memories of last last month game, more specifically in 28 April, are among everyone. The Canadiens were able to shutdown the super favorites Caps at Washington in game 7. Can they accomplish the same tonight? After all, one of the most similar teams to the Caps, are the Pens themselves. And against that kind of teams, that are mostly offensive, the Canadiens are able to make great performances due to a solid and cohesive defense. When the game start tonight, it will be impossible to believe that the Pens star with the edge.

They are the big favorites (as it happened at Washington...), but they can be very confident, as nobody forgets to remember the game 7 at Washington. They can see themselves as the Caps, with the offensive power and talent, but due the Caps fail against the Canadiens, they will be to anxious in the approach. In the other way the Canadiens are with their moral high, if they were able to eliminate a big favorite on the road, why not repeat?

They key that the Canadiens used against the Caps, was the defense, holding their offense with a cohesive and solid game. Due to that, they could find some spaces when the Caps get anxious, making their attacks in the right time only, getting a good accuracy, as they scored 2 goals in only 16 shots. In 3 games at Pittsburgh so far in this series, only one of the games went over, when the Canadiens allowed 4 goals in 4 power plays. Since that game, the Canadiens were able to hold the Pens offense, winning one game 3-1 at Pittsburgh and losing another only by 2-1.

The Pens have only two edges, they have a much better offense and will play this game at home. However, that's not all needed to win a game. It doesn't matter how talented are their players, because most of their best players are offensive players. The Canadiens will use an hard defense to stop these players, and the Pens have to be aware about it. They will have to be very patient, as they can't neglect their defense at any time. They will not have an easy game, even if they score first, the Canadiens are not the kind of team that will quit or get scared just because they are playing out of home.

With so many at stake today, both teams will have to be careful. No mistakes are allowed as it could cost the entire season. With a very tactical game, where both teams will have to try to end with a clean nets, the defense will be the key. We can expect a very low pace game, and even thinking that the Pens are favorites, the odds are to high for a game 7, against a team that already proved that have no fear and will play like an equal.

Picks: Montreal Canadiens ML +210 (3.10) Bookmaker & Under 5.5 -140 (1.71) Bookmaker



NHL PLAYOFFS (22-33-3, -7.74u) 2010.05.11 results recap:

Chicago Blackhawks @ Vancouver Canucks: Vancouver Canucks -0.5 +123 (2.23) 5Dimes (1-5: LOSS)

NHL 2010.05.11 finished 0-1 and -1 unit lost/1 unit risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 188-250-7, -14.23 units lost (438 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 156-188-7, +4.37 units won (344 units risked)

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (23-36-3, -8.64u) 2010.05.12 results recap:

Montreal Canadiens @ Pittsburgh Penguins: Montreal Canadiens ML +210 (3.10) Bookmaker (2-5: WIN)
Montreal Canadiens @ Pittsburgh Penguins: Under 5.5 -140 (1.71) Bookmaker (2-5: LOSS)
Boston Bruins @ Philadelphia Flyers: Philadelphia Flyers PL -1.5 +220 (3.20) The Greek (2-1: LOSS)
Boston Bruins @ Philadelphia Flyers: Over 5 -140 (1.71) Bookmaker (2-1: LOSS)

NHL 2010.05.12 finished 1-3 and -0.9 units lost/4 unit risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 189-253-7, -15.13 units lost (442 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 157-191-7, +3.47 units won (348 units risked)

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (23-36-3, -8.64u) 2010.05.14 only pick:

Philadelphia Flyers @ Boston Bruins: Philadelphia Flyers ML +108 (2.08) BetPhoenix

*One unit each always.

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (24-36-3, -7.56u) 2010.05.14 results recap:

Philadelphia Flyers @ Boston Bruins: Philadelphia Flyers ML +108 (2.08) BetPhoenix (3-4: WIN)

NHL 2010.05.14 finished 1-0 and +1.08 units won/1 unit risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 190-253-7, -14.05 units lost (443 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 158-191-7, +4.55 units won (349 units risked)

NHL 2010 EASTERN & WESTERN CONFERENCE QUARTERFINALS RECORD: 14-18-2, -3.03 units lost (32 units risked)

NHL 2010 EASTERN & WESTERN CONFERENCE SEMIFINALS RECORD: 10-18-1, -4.53u units lost (28 units risked)

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (24-36-3, -7.56u) 2010.05.16 first pick:

Chicago Blackhawks @ San Jose Sharks

Today we will have the first conference final. At the West, the Sharks will host the Blackhawks. With the home advantage for the Sharks side, this series promise good games, whit big clashes in the offense. In the regular season, the Blackhawks are just a little bit better in the offense, as in defense. However, that difference is the average of all the regular season games. At tonight game, the Sharks will have more 3 days than the Blackhawks of rest.

At this point, where they achieve the final, that is an important fact, specially when is the home team that have it at game 1. The Blackhawks, despite a good regular season, will start this conference final at Sharks home. Their number are much better, mostly due to a big home games, where they have their edge. On road, the team have a 28-15 record, and even thinking the great games the Blackhawks have made in this year playoffs, they will face today a different season, that can hold better their offense.

It's curious that the Blackhawks have lost all games 1 in this playoffs, probably as they needed that game to understand better their opponent, as since game 1, the Blackhawks start to crush their opponents. They ended both series they had with a 4-2 result, with only one road loss at Nashville. But their opponents were good offensive teams that weren't so good defenders, giving them the edge in all games.

The Sharks are considered by many as the biggest contenders since the removal of the Caps and Penguins. They had some difficulties to knock out the Avs, needing 3 OT's after the loss in the first game to have the edge. They had a slowly entrance in this playoffs, but since they started to play at their best, they have easily started to win. After a 4-2 result against the Avs, they started the semi final against the Red Wings, for a series that everyone thought would be more balanced.

But the Sharks only let them win in their last home game, after all, a home game to end the series could be god. With a 4-1 result, the Sharks start today at home another series, but this time for the Western Conference. Since the first playoff game, where they lost 1-2 against the Predators, the team were able to make great home games, and all wins. They have a good home defense, a great offense, and have a big edge in the power plays, as they are scoring 2 power plays goals per game, and only allowed one powerplay goal at home in this playoffs.

They are more fresh, aware that this could be their year, and know that they have the edge, as this game is at home and can use the lack of solidity in the Blackhawks side in the first games of the series.

Pick: San Jose Sharks 3Way (1X2) +130 (2.30) Bookmaker

*One unit each always.

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (24-37-3, -8.56u) 2010.05.16 results recap:

Chicago Blackhawks @ San Jose Sharks: San Jose Sharks 3Way (1X2) +130 (2.30) Bookmaker (1-2: LOSS)

NHL 2010.05.16 finished 0-1 and -1 unit lost/1 unit risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 190-254-7, -15.05 units lost (444 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 158-192-7, +3.55 units won (350 units risked)

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (24-37-3, -8.56u) 2010.05.18 final 3 picks:

Montreal Canadiens @ Philadelphia Flyers: Philadelphia Flyers PL -1.5 +220 (3.20) The Greek

Chicago Blackhawks @ San Jose Sharks: San Jose Sharks 3Way (1X2) +115 (2.15) Bookmaker

Chicago Blackhawks @ San Jose Sharks: Under 5.5 -105 (1.95) Bookmaker

*One unit each always.



Montreal Canadiens @ Philadelphia Flyers

A really easy game. It was what we have seen in the game 1, something that no one expected. Most of the games played so far have been very balanced, and won by few goals. We have to recoil the second game at Detroit that the Sharks did to see another game in this year playoffs won by 6 goals. At game one, the winner was clear and unquestionable, with a 6-0 result for the Flyers.

The Canadiens have arrived in this conference final due to their will and some demerit from their opponents. Even so, they deserve this spot, as they never gave up, playing a solid defense game and taking their offensive opportunities. They had lost against the Caps one game by 5 goals, but were able to bounce back from a 1-3 result in the series. Against the Pens, they were losing 3-2 in the series, and were able to bounce back again, while losing at most by 3 goals.

This team sometimes allows many goals form their opponents, but it just happened once in each series. One of their biggest problems is when they have penalty minutes and allow powerplays. They are the kind of team that score a lot. Most of all, they defend a lot, making it the base of their game. If their defense doesn't work, they will be closer to a loss than to a win.

The Flyers have been playing an awesome game lately. Their last series was something epic, giving them the moral that makes them one of the strongest contenders to the Stanley Cup. They were 3-0 down in the series against Bruins. And if that wasn't enough, they were also 3-0 down in game 7 at Boston. But they were able to bounce back the series and the game 7, arriving to this eastern conference final.

Now, it is clear how their confidence is, they started this conference final with a 6-0 result at home. Their supporters are delighted and believe that they could raise the Stanley Cup this season. Their support at this point is huge, and they make the difference at home. The Flyers only lost one game at home in this playoffs, the first game at Philadelphia against the Bruins.

They are strong at home, allowing few goals, and scoring easily, with the help of some powerplay situations. They are unstoppable right now, and while they can remember the heroic series they had against the Bruins, this will be a hard team to beat.

Pick: Philadelphia Flyers PL -1.5 +205 (3.05) The Greek



Chicago Blackhawks @ San Jose Sharks

At game 1, we had 85 shots and only 3 goals. The defenses were the starts at that night. Unfortunately, the Sharks lost that game 1-2, after scoring first and ended the first period in the lead. An hard game that could end for both sides. Even with 45 shots, the Sharks were only able to score 1 goal, in Powerplay. With this loss, the Sharks weren't able to end the road winning streak that the Blackhawks have, that have increased for six.

The Blackhawks are showing an incredible defense at this playoffs, specially on road. What seemed their weakest spot, is turning in their best spot, and with this change, the Blackhawks are able to run for this series like equals against the Sharks, who seemed the favorites. However, I still see the Sharks as favorites, as they only have to manage to overcame the Blackhawks defense to win this conference final.

The Blackhawks are playing with their defense, as when they are able to hold the opponent offense, they usually won the games. At least, it's what we have seen lately in the playoffs, as most of the games they won were allowing 2 or less games. After the win in the first game, the Blackhawks are with the home advantage, as they only need to win their home games to won this final conference and run for the Stanley Cup.

Most of all, they will have to play carefully and without madness tonight. Their main goal is won the next two games, but of course, with an eye on the road games. They are aware that is very likely to lose this game, the probability is on Sharks side. Usually, when the favorites lost the Game 1 at home, they won the second game at home. Like we saw in game 5 against the Canucks, the Blackhawks after the loss in game 1 at home, won 3 games in a row, including the 2 road game at Vancouver.

After that, they lost the third game at home, as they were with to much confidence. Tonight, they know that they are in the lead even with a loss tonight,but they will be able to hook a defeat.

The Sharks have no space to to errors. They have the edge to play at home to try to tie the game and go try to snap a game at Chicago. But they have to think only in tonight. Another edge they have, is the powerplays. They are very good in powerplays, specially at home, and as we saw in the last game, where their only goal was a PP goal, they can take advantage of it. They can also play with a good defense, unfortunately they allowed one more goal than the Blackhawks in the last game, but could be them to score it.

They just need to keep that good defense, and push the Blackhawks to their nets. They can score really easily at home, and will have their powerplay chances as well. A defeat is not an option, as they still believe that can win this final and go dispute the Stanley Cup.

Picks: San Jose Sharks (1X2) +115 (2.15) Bookmaker & Under 5.5 -105 (1.95) Bookmaker

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (25-39-3, -8.51u) 2010.05.18 results recap:

Montreal Canadiens @ Philadelphia Flyers: Philadelphia Flyers PL -1.5 +205 (3.05) The Greek (3-0: WIN)
Chicago Blackhawks @ San Jose Sharks: San Jose Sharks 3Way (1X2) +115 (2.15) Bookmaker (2-4: LOSS)
Chicago Blackhawks @ San Jose Sharks: Under 5.5 -105 (1.95) Bookmaker (2-4: LOSS)

NHL 2010.05.18 finished 1-2 and +0.05 units won/3 units risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 191-256-7, -15 units lost (447 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 159-194-7, +3.6 units won (353 units risked)

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (25-39-3, -9.51u) 2010.05.20 final 2 picks:

Philadelphia Flyers @ Montreal Canadiens

Today we arrive to game 3 in the eastern conference final. The series are being completely controlled by the Flyers, as they didn't allowed any goal yet. The Canadiens have been shutdown by 6 and by 3 in the first games at Philadelphia. Now, the Canadiens will return to home, where they will have 2 games to try to tie this final. It's well known that in this final, playing at home its a big edge, as both teams got great supporters.

The Canadiens will start the game strong, but they have been unable to score against the Flyers. Their defense at home isn't better than on the road, and due to an emergency sense, we should expect the Canadiens to play at a higher pace. Their offense at home is better, they just have to be more focus to score some goals. Their 3 home games against the Pens, 2 were won by one goal and the other was a loss.

In that 3 games they weren't able to score in a powerplay situation, but had the benefits of playing against a team that didn't give them the credits they deserved. The Canadiens in their last home games were able to hold lots of opponents shots, and score in a few opportunities.

The Flyers will enter the game with one thing in mind; win a game at Montreal. They know that is not an easy thing, but they know that even with a 2-0 in this final, the result is far from done. Themselves were able to bounce back from a 0-3 in the semi-finals of the eastern conference. So, they will not make it easy to the Canadiens, as the Caps and Pens did.

They know that they have to be focus in their defense, just has they did at Philadelphia in the last games. The Canadiens explore a lot the open spaces that the teams opens when get anxious to score in the development of the game. The Flyers have been tactically perfect in this playoffs, and will do their best to frustrate the Canadiens game.

The powerplays have been one of the strongest aspects of this Flyers in the playoffs, as well as their defense. Even with some goals allowed, the Flyers will be able also to score, and will have a strong chance to try to win this game.

Picks: Philadelphia Flyers ML +108 (2.08) BetPhoenix & Over 5 -122 (1.82) BetPhoenix

*One unit each always.

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (26-40-3, -9.69u) 2010.05.21 final pick:

San Jose Sharks vs Chicago Blackhawks

Game 3, with the home team leading 2-0. They will have their chance to increase their lead and even end this series as they will have now two home games. However, no one thinks that would happen. First of all, the Sharks aren't less than the Hawks, and are able to win at Chicago as well. But also, no one wants to see this final ending with only 4 games, more games are expected for most of the NHL fans, and it would be unfair to see one team snap this final with a 4-0 result, as both teams are very good.

Both teams have good offensive lines, lines that gives them wins when their defense work. They have to be able to hold the opposite offense lines, as they are not the kind of teams that only try to score more than their opponents, they try to score enough goals while they hold their defense. They are the kind of teams that easily score, but they prefer to play safe. Today, to much is in stake, as the Hawks can today give a huge step to the Stanley Cup, while the Sharks will be in big troubles.

Today the game will be played with big cautions from the Sharks side. They have good defenders, and will have to support their game on it. They can't allow any goal, as at least they have to end the regular time with a tie to try to win in OT. After the loss in game 1, the Sharks were forced to win the second game, but they missed it. If the first game had 85 shots and only 3 goals, its awkwardness to understand why 49 shots gave 6 goals in game 2.

While this western conference walks to it's final, with one team seeing their lead growing, the game starts to get more tactical and were no mistakes are allowed. Today, the Sharks will have to play with all their strength in their defense, making no mistakes, as any mistake can put them in the edge of the elimination.

The Blackhawks are in a good position. They can play their own game, as even a loss today can't take them out of the lead. They know how to stop the Sharks offense, as they only allowed 3 goals in San Jose, where the Sharks are very good in the offense. They are aware of the kind of game that the Sharks will bring up tonight, and will not make it easier to the Sharks just because this game it's more important for the Sharks than the Hawks.

The Hawks at home, in front of their supporters, can't let the Sharks make the party. They will give their best, holding their defense and try to exploit any mistake that Sharks could do.

Pick: Under 5.5 +103 (2.03) BetPhoenix, +100 (2.00) Bookmaker

*One unit each always.



NHL PLAYOFFS (26-40-3, -9.69u) 2010.05.20 results recap:

Philadelphia Flyers @ Montreal Canadiens: Philadelphia Flyers ML +108 (2.08) BetPhoenix (5-1: LOSS)
Philadelphia Flyers @ Montreal Canadiens: Over 5 -122 (1.82) BetPhoenix (5-1: WIN)

NHL 2010.05.20 finished 1-1 and -0.18 units lost/2 units risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 192-257-7, -15.18 units lost (449 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 160-195-7, +3.42 units won (355 units risked)

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS 2010.05.20 results recap:

San Jose Sharks @ Chicago Blackhawks: Under 5.5 +103 (2.03) BetPhoenix (3-2: WIN)

NHL 2010.05.11 finished 1-0 and +1.03 units won/1 unit risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 193-257-7, -14.15 units lost (450 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 161-195-7, +4.45 units won (356 units risked)



NHL PLAYOFFS (27-40-3, -8.66u) 2010.05.23 final 2 picks:

San Jose Sharks @ Chicago Blackhawks: San Jose Sharks +158 (2.58) JazzSports, +150 (2.50) Bookmaker

San Jose Sharks @ Chicago Blackhawks: Over 5.5 -105 (1.95) BetPhoenix, -110 (1.91) 5Dimes, JazzSports, BetUS, The Greek, Bet Jamaica, -111 (1.90) Goalwin

*One unit each always.

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (28-41-3, -8.71u) 2010.05.24 final pick: *

Philadelphia Flyers @ Montreal Canadiens: Philadelphia Flyers PL -1.5 +180 (2.80) JazzSports

* One unit each always.




NHL PLAYOFFS (28-41-3, -8.71u) 2010.05.23 results recap:

San Jose Sharks @ Chicago Blackhawks: San Jose Sharks ML +158 (2.58) JazzSports (4-2: LOSS)
San Jose Sharks @ Chicago Blackhawks: Over 5.5 -105 (1.95) BetPhoenix (4-2: WIN)

NHL 2010.05.23 finished 1-1 and -0.05 units lost/2 units risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 194-258-7, -14.20 units lost (452 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 162-196-7, +4.4 units won (358 units risked)

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (29-41-3, -6.91u) 2010.05.24 results recap:

Montreal Canadiens @ Philadelphia Flyers: Philadelphia Flyers PL -1.5 +180 (2.80) JazzSports (4-2: WIN)

NHL 2010.05.29 finished 1-0 and +1.8 units won/1 unit risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 195-258-7, -12.4 units lost (453 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 163-196-7, +6.2 units won (359 units risked)


NHL 2010 EASTERN & WESTERN CONFERENCE QUARTERFINALS RECORD: 14-18-2, -3.03 units lost (32 units risked)

NHL 2010 EASTERN & WESTERN CONFERENCE SEMIFINALS RECORD: 10-18-1, -5.54 units lost (28 units risked)

NHL 2010 EASTERN & WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS RECORD: 5-5, +1.65 units won (10 units risked)

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (29-41-3, -6.91u) 2010.05.29 final pick: *


Philadelphia Flyers @ Chicago Blackhawks

Stanley Cup finals! After both conferences ended with a winner, now is time to clash the eastern against the western. Philadelphia Flyers or Chicago Blackhawks will follow to Pittsburgh Penguins, the champion last year. This is the higher point of a season, where the Blackhawks were always trying to prove that they were truly contenders while the Flyers passed a really bad month that bring them a new coach.

That bad month almost ruined their season, as they hadn't a easy way to the playoffs, where they arrived as a dogs in all the series they played. So, when both teams achieve this final, we could say that they are both tired as this is the end of a long season, but none more tired than other. Their will to win this cup, and end this season well is enough to give them strengths.

However, there could be a little edge for the Flyers. They were able to bounce back from a 3-0 against the Bruins. And if like it wasn't enough, they were also able to bounce back from a 3-0 in game 7. This epic series for them, give them the confidence needed to be a champion. After a 4-1 against the almighty Devils, they had a 4-3 against the Bruins in a historic series.

That confidence made them able to shutdown by 4-1 a close team like the Canadiens, that won to the Penguins and Capitals. So, they arrive to this Stanley Cup final highly moralized, they have the momentum on their side, as they are 8-1 since the 3 losses in a row against the Bruins. The Blackhawks had an easy way, as they had a 2-1 against them in the beginning, but since then, they were always leading their series.

Their offensive power as been their key, and the 4-0 they gave to the Sharks, at the date the strongest contenders to the Stanley Cup, give them also confidence to approach this game. Tonight, we will have a clash between two good offensive teams. Both are confident, and are aware that their best keys are their offense. None will play this game with a low pace, as only a good offensive will win this game.

The Flyers were able to pass trough a thought defense, the Canadiens defense, and the Hawks passed the Sharks defense. The Flyers are 8-1 in the last 9 games against the Hawks, but that will not the difference today. At Chicago, everyone knows that they will have to keep their high pace, and try to take the edge they can take in their offense, as the Flyers haven't the best defense.

Philadelphia is also aware that they have to keep their offensive role, as they are doing lately. Only scoring more than the Blackhawks can give them a precious win to start this final.

Pick: Over 5.5 -110 (1.91) 5Dimes


* One unit each always.

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (30-41-3, -6u) 2010.05.29 results recap:

Philadelphia Flyers @ Chicago Blackhawks: Over 5.5 -110 (1.91) 5Dimes (6-5: WIN)

NHL 2010.05.29 finished 1-0 and +0.91 units won/1 unit risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 196-258-7, -11.49 units lost (454 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 164-196-7, +7.11 units won (360 units risked)

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (30-41-3, -6u) 2010.05.31 final pick: *


Philadelphia Flyers @ Chicago Blackhawks

After a great game starting this Stanley Cup final, the expectations of a great final are high. The Flyers were able to be in the lead during the game for some time, due to 5 goals scored in the fist 2 periods. But in the last period, the Hawks were finally able to bounce back, scoring while suffering none goal.

The game didn't have lot's of shots, but had a great accuracy. Both teams are motivated, and even with a loss, the Flyers are pretty good to handle with defeats. But after such a great game from both teams, we could expect the same confidence from the players to score easily today as well.

One particularity is that only Flyers had PP situations, scoring only one PP goal. From these goad teams in PP situations, we can expect a great improve today, and more than only one PP goal in the entire game. Once again, we should look to the offense despite the defense.

Both teams are much better offensively than defensively. The last game clearly show it, as only one team miss the target to score at least one goal in each period. In the Hawks side, we should not forget that players like Toews and Kane can produce much more than last game.

Chicago at home shouldn't let Flyers snap any game, they showed in the last game what is needed to be a champion, and the talent that their team have. They are confident, and at Chicago the euphoria are spreading out to the United Center at Chicago.

The Flyers arrived here with their own merit, despite some surprise. Some people says that they had an easy playoffs, but facing the Devils or a 0-3 in on series or 0-3 in game 7, is never an easy thing. In their last 7 playoff games, the team is scoring an average of 3.7 goals per game, and this is a good indicator of their confidence and good shape in the offensive line.

With both teams having what it's need to be a champion, winning on the road can be the key for this series. Despite the favoritism for the Hawks, the Flyers will have a word to say, just like they did in the previous series. And the offensive produce will keep to be the biggest edge, with the team that could easily overcome the others defense being probably the winner of the game.

Even with many thinking that today it will be a game with a lower pace, the game will not be much different, even with a worst accuracy, both teams can easily score, as none have strongest line in the defense.

Pick: Over 6 +105 (2.05) 5Dimes, BetPhoenix


* One unit each always.

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (30-42-3, -7u) 2010.05.31 results recap:

Philadelphia Flyers @ Chicago Blackhawks: Over 6 +105 (2.05) 5Dimes (2-1: LOSS)

NHL 2010.05.31 finished 0-1 and -1 unit lost/1 unit risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 196-259-7, -12.49 units lost (455 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 164-197-7, +6.11 units won (361 units risked)

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (30-42-3, -7u) 2010.06.02 final 2 picks:


Chicago Blackhawks @ Philadelphia Flyers

This will be game 3, and perhaps the game that can give us a clear vision of who will be the champion. Philadelphia is down 2-0, but they aren't out of the road. We can't forget the epic series they had against the Bruins. Another important thing to keep in mind, is that the Flyers are 22-7 in their last 29 home games, including a 4-0 run since their bounce back against the Bruins.

Is highly probable that the Blackhawks will make the same approach for this game as they have done lately in their road games. Their goal will be to come back home with a win at Philadelphia, an they know that they are stronger than the Flyers. They are with a 13-2 run lately in this playoffs, including a 7-0 run with their 4-0 win against the (theoretically) strongest contenders.

On the road, they explore a lot their offense, as it's easier to a team like them to make best offensive plays when they have more space. Despite a great road record, they will face a team that will have to play like equal to try to tie this series when they are down by 2-0, and that will make us probably see a game like game 1, with lot's of goals. The Blackhawks are good offensively, and in their last 6 road games, that are with an average higher than 4.5 goals scored per game.

Philadelphia is aware that a loss today will put them again in the hard position they had against the Bruins. However, since that series, the team is highly moralized and confident. Despite 2 losses in the first 2 games in this Stanley Cup finals, the team are playing well and giving a great replica against the favorites. They lost both games only by one goal, and were close to a win in game 1, failing only in the third period.

At home, the team have a good record. They already showed that they can easily score against Chicago, not, and in front of their supporters, the team will have to confirm it. They know they can win this game, as they can play a game with a high pace and achieve a win, specially at home. The powerplays will probably be the key for this game, as there have been few PP situations lately, but the Flyers were able to score the only PP goals so far in this final.

The fact that Chicago will probably try to snap this first game at Philadelphia, will be good for the Flyers, as they will probably have more spaces to score and a better control of the game.

Picks: Philadelphia Flyers PL -1.5 +240 (3.40) 5Dimes & Over 5.5 -105 (1.95) 5Dimes


* One unit each always.

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (31-43-3, -7.05u) 2010.06.04 final 2 picks:


Chicago Blackhawks @ Philadelphia Flyers

It wasn't easy, but the Flyers are only one step away to tie this Stanley Cup Finals, after a 2-0. The home factor is making the difference so far, if the first two games at Chicago were won by the home team by only 1 goal, the game at Philadelphia were won only in OT by the Flyers.

So, at this point, even with a 2-1 lead for the Blackhawks, both teams still have great chances to win Stanley Cup. The Hawks were pointed as the favorites since the beginning. Due to lot's of road wins in this playoffs, after a 2-0 lead, most of the people were convinced that the Hawks were half a step away from the Stanley Cup.

But the Flyers have tonight a big chance to tie this series. And as we saw previously, the Flyers can give a surprise on the road, while the Hawks showed earlier in this playoffs some issues at home against Canadians teams.

Chicago is playing well in their offense, but can't manage their defense as well as they wish. But perhaps the problem is other, as the Flyers can overcome even the best performance from the Hawks defense line. At game 2, we watched a 2-1 win for the Hawks at Chicago, with the same amount of shots that we saw in last game (4-3 win for the Flyers).

That game was well played, but some anxious problems from both sides avoid goals that would happen 90 times in 100. The Hawks, that were more confident before the beginning of this finals, are now aware that this could give them more work than they thought. While they can't work better their defense, they will have to score more than the Flyers, and focus on that.

Their offensive lines have a great potential, and the game that they can play better against the Flyers is that one. The Flyers are confident that can bounce back from the 2-0 in this finals, with home wins and try to snap a win at Chicago, that weren't so far as it seemed in the first two games. The team is showing a good game, and in my opinion, is showing the best game between both teams at this finals.

Even with results against them, Philadelphia only need a win today to tie the series. They can miss their chances tonight at home. The Flyers once against started as dogs, but are showing a better game. They are scoring PP goals, something that they will probably keep today, while allowing few PP and allowed none PP goal in this finals. In their last 8 games, they only allowed 1 PP goal, while scored 8 PP goals in the same time, including 3 games without any PP goal against the Canadiens.

Tonight, we can expect a moralized and confident team from the Flyers. Their offensive power has been great lately, and despite a 4-3 win last game in OT, we can expect improvement in offensive field. In last game, the first offensive line composed by Carter, Richards and Gagne didn't scored or assisted any goal. Giroux and Briere were the stars. Today, we can expect the same from the offensive players, but also more from the first line.

Picks: Philadelphia Flyers -0.5 +146 (2.46) 5Dimes & Over 5.5 -107 (1.93) 5Dimes


* One unit each always. I will spend the weekend out of town, so I might not post any picks. Good Luck!

[TommyGold]

NHL PLAYOFFS (31-43-3, -7.05u) 2010.06.02 results recap:

Chicago Blackhawks @ Philadelphia Flyers: Philadelphia Flyers PL -1.5 +240 (3.40) 5Dimes (4-3 OT: LOSS)
Chicago Blackhawks @ Philadelphia Flyers: Over 5.5 -105 (1.95) 5Dimes (4-3 OT: WIN)

NHL 2010.06.02 finished 1-1 and -0.05 units lost/2 units risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 197-260-7, -12.54 units lost (457 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 165-198-7, +6.06 units won (363 units risked)



NHL PLAYOFFS (33-43-3, -4.66u) 2010.06.04 results recap:

Chicago Blackhawks @ Philadelphia Flyers: Philadelphia Flyers -0.5 +146 (2.46) 5Dimes (5-3: WIN)
Chicago Blackhawks @ Philadelphia Flyers: Over 5.5 -107 (1.93) 5Dimes (5-3: WIN)

NHL 2010.06.04 finished 2-0 and +2.39 units won/2 units risked.
NHL 2009-2010 season record: 199-260-7, -10.15 units lost (459 units risked)

NHL since 2009.11.23: 167-198-7, +8.45 units won (365 units risked)



NHL PLAYOFFS (33-43-3, -4.66u) 2010.06.09 final 2 picks:


Chicago Blackhawks @ Philadelphia Flyers

This final is red hot. At least this final will have at least 6 games, instead of the minimum 4 games. This is what everyone likes, as after this big final, the season will be over. And as much equalized this final seems, it will have a better taste for the winner. as at this point, anyone can win. This game 6 will be at Philadelphia, where the Flyers will have to win to tie this series and force a game 7.

In the first 5 games, the home team always won. Besides that, only game 2 had an under, but that was the exception and it wouldn't be strange if that game ended with an over. So, the magical formula seems "bet against the road team, and put also a coin in the over".

Despite the 3-2 result against the Blackhawks, the Flyers are showing a great game and gave great replies at Chicago. Only the first period in the last game the Hawks were clearly able to control the game, and that first period was the key for their last win. After a 3-0 in first period, the Hawks weren't able to win any more period, ending the game 7-4. The offensive power has been impressive in both teams. In this final, the main question is who will score more goals, instead of the normal "who will allow less goals". Even with the same meaning, its a question of mentality that both teams are having. Due to that, this finals are being fantastic, with great games.

At home, the Flyers will have to do what they have done lately. Win the game. Chicago will not make it easy for them, as the Hawks are more focus in win the Stanley Cup as soon as possible to avoid surprises, than in giving that winning game at home, where anything can happen. On the other hand, at this point, the Flyers can't lose any game. Is win or go home, but the team is adapted to that circumstances.

Today, we can expect again many goals. The teams will fight with all their strengths, the season is almost over and the commitment of one player can make the difference. The Flyers are giving a great reply to the Hawks, when they were the dogs and no one expected that they would hold so many games. With the support of their fans, they can face any time in this world, their teamwork is huge.

Picks: Philadelphia Flyers PL -1.5 +260 (3.60) 5Dimes, The Greek & Over 5.5 -123 (1.81) 5Dimes


* One unit each always. On Game 5, I played Flyers 3 Way and Over 5.5 and finished the day with a 1-1 split. :P

[DennisGreen]

GL Tommy and good season. Love the write-ups and you are definitely the sleeper of the NHL forum.