Xam’s Daily Gem:
Kings 60 Minute Money Line +115
Risk: 5 Units
To Win: 5.75 Units
(For this bet to win, the Kings must win in regulation. Bet loses even if the Kings win in OT/Shootout.)
The Devils come into this game with a record of 8-11-1 in their last 20 games. Their playoff hopes have been fading because of terrible team defense and goalie play. The Devils have given up 209 goals this season, good for 4th most in the Eastern Conference. The Devils have stayed alive this year thanks to their offense, with 201 goals on the year. They just aren’t playing with a lot of confidence right now. They just lost to the Anaheim Ducks who are one of the worst teams in the league. Even some of their recent wins have been extremely close. Despite a dominant win against the Sharks, they had to scratch and claw their way to a win recently against the Canadiens at home. The Kings are well rested and coming off a dominant win against the Canucks on the road. They’ve only played one game since the 27th. They’ve been led by timely offense and great defense. They’ve given up just 161 goals this year, the 2nd fewest total in the Western Conference. At home and at a rest advantage, the Kings should be able to slow down New Jersey’s high-powered offense. That’ll be the key in this game. The Kings should absolutely be able to score on a weak Devils defense and goalie situation at home. If the defense can slow down guys like Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier, and Tyler Toffoli, the Kings should be able to get the win in front of the home crowd and continue their playoff push.