Friday NHL Picks
Our team of writers and handicappers hand out their hockey picks and predictions for Monday, February 9.
New York Rangers at New Jersey Devils, 7:05PM ET
The New York Rangers’ struggles reached a new low with their worst defensive performance in nearly 16 years. Their defense didn’t fare much better in its last trip to New Jersey.
The Rangers look to avoid both their fifth straight loss overall and their fifth consecutive road defeat when they return to the Prudential Center on Monday to face the Devils.
As it faces a team it trails by six points in the Atlantic Division race, New York (29-19-5) will attempt to rebound from Friday’s 10-2 drubbing in Dallas. Trailing by two entering the final period, the Rangers gave up six unanswered goals and allowed an opponent to reach double digits for the first time since a 10-4 defeat to Pittsburgh on April 9, 1993.
The Devils have split four meetings this season with the Rangers but have won the past two, including a 4-2 win at Madison Square Garden on Dec. 27 – the most recent meeting overall.
NHL Free Pick: NY Rangers – View Game Matchup | Best Line: +140 Sportsbook.com
Montreal Canadiens at Calgary Flames, 9:05PM ET
The Calgary Flames established themselves as a title contender with their play in January, but this month has been another story.
The Northwest Division-leading Flames, who are in the midst of a season-high four-game losing streak, again seek their first win of February on Monday when they host the Montreal Canadiens, who open a six-game road trip.
Calgary (30-18-4) built a comfortable lead atop the Northwest last month when it tied San Jose for the league’s second-best January record at 8-3-0, but it has since joined Phoenix as the only two teams without a point this month.
The Flames lost to Anaheim 2-1 on Saturday and have dropped four straight games – all in February. Calgary is also suddenly vulnerable at home, as it has lost back-to-back games at the Saddledome after winning 10 of its previous 11 there.
Offensive woes have been the biggest reason for the Flames’ skid. They’ve scored just four goals in their last three games after tallying 16 in their previous four.
NHL Free Pick: Calgary – View Game Matchup | Best Line: -150 Sportsbook.com
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Posted: 2/9/09 1:44PM ET
