Stale, tough choice considering you're on the wrong side of a hedge by having to lay -170 or more. Chicago is one of the few to have any success at the Joe, (won 7 of the last 8). But despite the Blackhawks claim that they plan to
"play to win", it makes no sense why they should.
Nobody wants to face Nashville in the first round, especially without having home ice advantage. If Chicago wins in regulation that is exactly what's facing them. All the more reason for the Wings to play this one with effort. Detroit is relatively healthy while Chicago still plays without Toews and rests/sits Andrew Brunette and Dave Bolland. If they are good to go in the playoffs, which Quenneville says they are, then why not play them here if you plan on playing this game to win. Reading between the lines here I think it's bullshit and Detroit rolls in this game.
If I was in your position I'd put every dime I had risked on the under 48.5 on Detroit today. But consider this advice comes from the same guy who had Boston at 12/1 to win the cup last year and put every dime on what it would win on Vancouver, (prior to the cup finals).
pensfan...much tougher call IMO. Cbus has been playing well now that the games mean nothing to them but are loaded with injuries. Have to believe this game goes off close to pick 'em, (maybe even with Islanders as slight favorite), and since you have them in this game, (in essence), at -115 I'd guess you have them on the wrong side of a hedge as well. Still with all the injuries to Columbus a strong case could be made for liking the Islanders here. I have no idea how much exposure you have with New York but perhaps a small buy back is in order. Wait till game time, see who is suiting up for Cbus and then make up your mind.
GL boys