PREMIUM
"The Coach's" NHL Hawks/Wild Game 3 *PUNISHER*
(NHL) Chicago vs. Minnesota,
Money Line: -140.00 Minnesota (Home)
Result: Loss
Money Line: -140.00 Minnesota (Home)
Result: Loss
The Chicago Blackhawks claimed both of the first two meetings of this Western Conference semifinals series at the United Center but might find it hard to make it three in a row as the series turn to Minnesota. The Wild will be desperate not to go three games down and I think they'll bounce back with a big performance in front of their home-fans tonight.
Here are my keys to the game:
1. Special Teams - Minnesota has the most effective powerplay unit in the playoffs at its disposal as it has converted on 35.3% of its opportunities. The Blackhawks gave them five chances on the man advantage over the first two games at Chicago and the Wild took advantage twice. Chicago's penalty kill ranks worst of all the teams still in the playoffs killing of just 70.4% of the penalties.
2. Road Woes - The Blackhawks won just one of three games at Nashville in the first round of the playoffs and have lost four of their last five away from home. They're 2-5 over the last seven meetings at Minnesota.
3. X-Factor - The Wild have won Game 3 after losing the first two contests at Chicago in both of their previous playoff matchups.
Selection: This is a play on the Minnesota Wild (8*)
Here are my keys to the game:
1. Special Teams - Minnesota has the most effective powerplay unit in the playoffs at its disposal as it has converted on 35.3% of its opportunities. The Blackhawks gave them five chances on the man advantage over the first two games at Chicago and the Wild took advantage twice. Chicago's penalty kill ranks worst of all the teams still in the playoffs killing of just 70.4% of the penalties.
2. Road Woes - The Blackhawks won just one of three games at Nashville in the first round of the playoffs and have lost four of their last five away from home. They're 2-5 over the last seven meetings at Minnesota.
3. X-Factor - The Wild have won Game 3 after losing the first two contests at Chicago in both of their previous playoff matchups.
Selection: This is a play on the Minnesota Wild (8*)