NHL Thursday :

[RVD]

Panthers took last week meeting with the Sens in Ottawa 3-1.

Sens got a big win against Buffalo in their last game with their key players scoring. Florida were flat against St-Louis in their last game, without Stephen Weiss.

Panthers dealing with lineup problems tonight. No 2 center Stephen Weiss, a reliable two ways player is out. Blue line is also thin with Cory Murphy joining others blue liners on the disable list. We will see Wade Belak or free agent Jason Cullimore (signed this week) play defense. A scary scenario.

Ottawa is in a revenge situation against Florida tonight. I like the Senators chances. Ottawa top 2 lines may have some edge against the Panthers centers. Sens will have more chances to score tonight. Good spot to build momentum.

Ottawa (-115)

[RVD]

Edmonton is struggling on offense right now and a matchup with the Nashville Predators might be a cure.

Nashville offense is getting the job done but defense is a major concern. The team has allowed 13 goals in the last 3 games.

We should see some open ice tonight and Oilers speed should benefit from the situation. Predators are expected to send goalie Pekka Rinne in goal while Dan Ellis rest a sore neck. Rinne had a bad start in his only game this year and rust may be the reason. Rinne played only 14 minutes this year before being pulled in his only start. It's the ninth game of the season for Nashville and he is getting only his second chance to play. He is basically getting his first full-game action since a month (pre-season).

Oilers in need of a win and hungry. I like their chances and the plus money.

Edmonton (+110)