Ron Raymond's 2008 NHL Season Wins Preview Predictions

2008/2009 NHL Season Wins

By Ron Raymond

Sept 30th 2008



What happened to the days where you either won or lost the game? Why do we reward a lost in hockey and give the team’s one point for an overtime lost? I’ve heard all sorts of reasoning on why the NHL has adopted their current system and I’m a strong believer of rewarding skill. Some people don’t like the NHL shootouts, but last time I look, the concept of sports is about scoring and players who have honed their talents should be rewarded in many facets.



If a team cannot win during a 60 minute game, then don’t blame the 5 minute overtime or the shootout for the spoiler. Overtime and the shootout are now part of the game and the last time I checked, fans weren’t leaving the building during the shootout and people still cheer an overtime winner.



Furthermore, handicapping NHL season wins over/unders has become even more complicated since the lockout, as you now have to consider overtime loses and basically, follow a team’s style of play. For instance, the NYR were involved in 13 overtime games last season, therefore, this tells me Tom Renney plays more for the tie then the win in the 3rd period. In fact, there are 12 teams who have played 10 or more overtime games last season and when you look at the NHL standings, the Islanders were not 35-38-9, they were 35-47 SU.



Here are the NHL teams season wins over/under odds for the 2008/2009 campaign.



Rangers Total Regular Season Points
Over 94.5

Under 94.5

*Note: The Rangers finished with 97 points last season, but the fact Tom Renney played for 13 overtime games last season, has me leaning more towards the OVER. The Rangers never seemed to gel as a unit last season, but with Jagr, Avery and Shanahan gone, it gives the younger players a chance to step up and adding quality new players like Naslund, Zherdev and Fritsche, gives the Rangers a bit of more depth.

Senators Total Regular Season Points

Over 94.5

Under 94.5

*Note: The Senators started the 2007 season on a 13-1 SU run, but team chemistry and the fact they played in the Stanley Cup the year before played a major role in their collapse in the second half. Senators should eclipse the 100 point mark this season. Furthermore, new head coach Craig Hartsburg didn’t want to reunite the big line of Heatley, Spezza and Alfredsson, but it’s just too strong of a combination to leave out of the combination. Ottawa should eclipse the 100 point barrier this season.



Penguins Total Regular Season Points

Over 98.5

Under 98.5

*Note: The Penguins are going to learn the hard way, when you trade a player like George Laracques out of your line up, it’s going to take a psychological effect on your team’s style of play and other teams will be running your talented players. As seen in the pre-season, the Lightning’s Koci took a run at Gonchar and now Gonchar is gone for 4 to 6 months. Who’s going to protect Crosby and Malkin now? UNDER 98.5 is a 5* BEST BET play.



Lightning Total Regular Season Points

Over 91.5

Under 91.5

Note: I feel like I woke up in the 90’s and Barry Melrose was the head coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Oh wait, it’s true! Just like the stock markets overreact to headlines, the Bookmakers are overreacting to trades and free agent signings in Tampa Bay. How many times have we’ve seen baseball and football teams stock up on free agent signings and it affects the team chemistry in the dressing room? I don’t see the Lightning getting more then 85 points this season, play the UNDER 91.5. (5 BEST BET)



Mighty Ducks Total Regular Season Points

Over 100.5

Under 100.5

*Note: The Ducks are a funny team; they have some good veteran players who don’t know if they should continue to play or retire. Giguere is one of the top money goalies in the league, he’s the Martin Brodeur of the Western Conference. The Ducks play intimidating hockey but they play in a division that has Phoenix and Los Angeles. Play UNDER 100.5. (3*)



Thrashers Total Regular Season Points

Over 79.5

Under 79.5

*Note: John Anderson won 4 AHL championships in 8 seasons with the Chicago Wolves and might be the right person to get Kovalchuk going on a nightly basis. The Thrasher’s biggest problem has been goaltending and 79.5 points is a tough line to cap. I would pass on this team.



Bruins Total Regular Season Points

Over 91.5

Under 91.5

*Note: Claude Julien is one of the most underrated NHL coaches in hockey and he’s won at every level. Tim Thomas is a journeyman goaltender for the Bruins and Chara is the rock on defense. Every good hockey teams starts with sound defense and the Bruins are average when it comes to team defense. I’m looking for Milan Lucic to have a breakout year for the Bruins and I’m forecasting he will be the next Cam Neely in Beantown. The Bruins finished with 94 points last season, but I look for the other division teams to have better season and 91.5 is too many points in my view. Play the UNDER.



Sabres Total Regular Season Points

Over 91.5

Under 91.5

*Note: The Buffalo Sabres remind me of the Oakland A’s of Baseball, they don’t carry the big name players anymore, but they have enough average players that play hard and with an above average goaltender like Miller, they have a shot every night to steal a point. Sabres are caught in a tough division and UNDER 91.5 is the play here.



Flames Total Regular Season Points

Over 94.5

Under 94.5

*Note: The Flames will be one of the most intimidating hockey teams in the NHL, as they have Phaneuf, Iginla, Roy, Bertuzzi, Sarich, and Vandermeer who can make you pay the price on a daily basis. Not to mention some of their AHL goons who will be brought up to meet the big heavyweights. I’m telling you now, the Flames will lead the league in penalties this season, but Anaheim will be very close. The Flames will make the playoffs, but I see them more as a 6, 7 or 8 seed and 94.5 is just about right on the number. Pass on the season number.



Hurricanes Total Regular Season Points

Over 89.5

Under 89.5

*Note: The Hurricanes have a Stanley Cup goaltender in Cam Ward, they have a great franchise player in Eric Staal and play in the South East division. 89.5 points is not that hard of a number for the Canes to achieve, but they will have more competition from the Capitals and Lightning this season. I still like them to get over 89.5 points, more like 92 points.



Blackhawks Total Regular Season Points

Over 94.5

Under 94.5

*Note: Love what the new owner in Chicago is doing, he’s reviving hockey in that town and they have great young talent with Toews and Kane and they will bring in new fans into the building. Huet is a funny goalie, he can be brilliant and when he’s off his game, he’s really off. Why else would Washington and Montreal get rid of him? Bob Gainey is a smart hockey person and he got rid of Huet for a reason. Chicago earned 88 points last season and I don’t think they get more then 90 points this season. Play UNDER 94.5.



Avalanche Total Regular Season Points

Over 91.5

Under 91.5

*Note: The Colorado Avalanche finished the 2007/2008 campaign with 95 points last season and they’ve made some interesting moves in the off season. Peter Budaj will be their starting goaltender and look for the Avs to be a bit grittier with Darcy Tucker in the line up. Paul Stastny will be the teams leading scorer this season and look for a player like Wojtek Wolski to be the teams next 20 goals a season man! Pass on the season wins total.



Blue Jackets Total Regular Season Points

Over 83.5

Under 83.5

*Note: The Blue Jackets have one of the best X’s and O’s coaches in Ken Hitchcock and Pascal Leclaire turned a few heads last season with his 24-17-6 record and 2.25 goals against average. The Blue Jackets brought in R.J. Umberger in the off season, but he’s still a question mark and don’t put too much stock in his great playoff performance last season with the Flyers. Who’s going to score after Nash? 83.5 is a small enough number, pass.



Stars Total Regular Season Points

Over 99.5

Under 99.5

*Note: Here’s the thing with the Dallas Stars, they went out and got Brad Richards at the trade deadline last season. Richards was the Stanley Cup MVP in 2004, played second fiddle behind LeCavalier and St.Louis in Tampa Bay for a few years and will have a guy like Sean Avery watching his back in Dallas. If Brad Richards can reach 85 points this season, the Stars will be a tough team to beat next spring. 99.5 is a tough number and I’m going to pass.



Red Wings Total Regular Season Points

Over 109.5

Under 109.5

*Note: Talk about a team who’s deep in talent. In fact, talent is not even an issue on this Red Wings unit; it’s the team’s health and fatigue factor which I question come March and April. Furthermore, the Red Wings play in a weak division and I don’t see any team giving them a real challenge for the division. However, anytime you have a teams season total wins prediction over 100 points, you cannot over look the stretch run, as history says teams who went to the Cup finals the season before, don’t normally finish strong. Therefore, consider the UNDER for the teams season wins.



Oilers Total Regular Season Points

Over 93.5

Under 93.5

*Note: The Oilers X factor is their two headed goalie system with Garon and Roloson. They have some exciting young talent up front with Hemsky and Gagner, but this is more of a playoff team then a season finesse teams. Each game will be a 1 or 2 goal battle and that’s why they played the least amount of overtime games (6) along with Carolina last season. Gun to my head type pick, under 93.5, but they will make the playoffs as an 8th seed.



Panthers Total Regular Season Points

Over 82.5

Under 82.5

*Note: The Panthers went out and got the hottest young coach in the market place in Peter DeBoer, but unfortunately, he’s got nobody to score goals for his club. Thomas Vokoun will be seeing over 40 shots per game, unless DeBoer installs a bullet proof defensive system to limit the number of shots against per game. The Panthers will in the 75 to 80 points range in my view, therefore, take the UNDER 82.5.



Kings Total Regular Season Points

Over 77.5

Under 77.5

*Note: Ask any hockey fans who the goalie is for the LA kings and I’m predicting 2 out of 10 fans will give you the right answer. Jason Labarbera and Jonathan Bernier should get most of the work load in Los Angeles. Terry Murray returns behind the bench for the Kings and he’s in a rebuilding year, therefore, play UNDER 77.5 points this season.



Wild Total Regular Season Points

Over 92.5

Under 92.5

*Note: Whenever you have a head coach like Jacques Lemaire behind the bench, you have a chance every game and they have a nice team in Minnesota with a great fan base. The Wild finished with 98 points last season and the bookmakers have them at 25-1 to win the Stanley Cup in ’08. The Wild play in a tough division and each team with the exception of Vancouver has gotten stronger in my view. UNDER 92.5.



Canadiens Total Regular Season Points

Over 99.5

Under 99.5

*Note: The Montreal Canadiens come into the 2008 season with most of the momentum to win the Cup this season, as they have the next best goalie with Carey Price and have depth on every line. If there’s a line for future James Norris trophy winners, take Andrei Markov, as I predict he will have one of the best seasons of all of the Canadiens players. Markov will be the key to the Habs power play this season and look for Kovalev and Plekanec to reach the 30 goal club this season. Kovalev scored 35 in 08. OVER 99.5 (5 BEST BET)



Predators Total Regular Season Points

Over 83.5

Under 83.5

*Note: The Nashville Predators are a funny team to handicap. They are stuck in the Deep South and don’t get much hockey exposure due to their market place. Barry Trotz has been their head coach since 1998, only Lindy Ruff has been coaching with one team the longest, as Ruff’s been the Sabres bench boss since ’97. Nevertheless, the Predators finished with 91 points in 2007 and they play in a weak Central division, with the exception of the Red Wings. The Books are forecasting a lesser then stellar season, as they’ve placed their season wins record at 83.5 points, which is second biggest difference behind Tampa Bay. Barry Trotz seems to know what he’s doing in Nashville and I would bet on the OVER 83.5 points.



Devils Total Regular Season Points

Over 97.5

Under 97.5

*Note: Seems the Devils are going back into the past, as they’ve brought back Brian Rolston and Bobby Holik in the off season. Brent Sutter over achieved last season and he lacked scorers up front and they still managed with 99 points. It’s going to be interesting to see how many games Sutter will give the veteran Brodeur this season and I expect the Devils to be around the 99 point mark again this season. OVER 97.5.



Islanders Total Regular Season Points

Over 74.5

Under 74.5

*Note: On paper, it looks like it’s going to be another long year for the Islanders and I’m not sure GM Garth Snow is rebuilding this team in the right direction. Why would they lock in a non-proven goaltender in DiPietro for 10 years and who did they get in the off season to get them goals this season? Mike Comrie and Bill Guerin were their only 20 goal scorers last season, but I do like the addition of Mark Streit. The Islanders finished with 79 points last season and the bookmakers have insulted them with a 74.5 mark this season. Pass.



Flyers Total Regular Season Points

Over 94.5

Under 94.5

*Note: If there’s two moves the Flyers did in the off season which I feel will bite them in the butt this season, allowing Jason Smith to sign with Ottawa was a huge mistake and letting RJ Umberger sign with Columbus will be a question mark answered in December. Smith was the veteran leadership in the room and on the ice they desperately needed and now they will see how valuable he was inside the locker room. The Flyers are stacked with a lot of young talent, but none have taken the leadership role to the next level. UNDER 94.5 is the call here.



Coyotes Total Regular Season Points

Over 82.5

Under 82.5

*Note: Wayne Gretzky needs to find another way to scratch his competitive itch. Trust me, I’m Canadian and love what Wayne Gretzky has done for Canadian hockey, but he’s not doing the Coyotes franchise any favors by allowing himself to coach this team. Here’s an analogy I like to use in this regards; Gretzky reminds me of the person in court who want to represent himself at his own trial. If you don’t have the coaching experience, then remove yourself or do your time in the lower levels like the OHL, WHL, QMJHL or the AHL. Coyotes will fall way short of the 82.5 points and take the UNDER.



Sharks Total Regular Season Points

Over 102.5

Under 102.5

*Note: The San Jose Sharks remind me of the Tampa Bay Lightning, they seem to put on a good face in front of the media about their coach, but the results on the ice state a whole different story. Ron Wilson had some good seasons with the Sharks, but wasn’t able to push the right buttons in the playoffs to get Thornton and Cheechoo to the next level. Todd McLellan was an assistant coach with the Red Wings and I’m not a big fan of assistant coaches thrown to the wolves and are expected to lead without experience. In order to be a head coach, you must have been a leader in your prior job, not the yes man behind another leader. UNDER 102.5. (5 BEST BET)



Blues Total Regular Season Points

Over 78.5

Under 78.5

*Note: The St.Louis Blues are in a rebuilding phase and from all accounts are heading into the right direction. The Blues have some interesting forwards who can help this team compete for the 7th and 8th seed, but will need stellar goaltending from Manny Legacy. Everything will depend on Kariya, Boyes and Brewer staying healthy. If these players can stay in the line up, the Blues could achieve between 79 and 81 points. OVER 78.5.



Maple Leafs Total Regular Season Points

Over 76.5

Under 76.5

*Note: The Toronto Maple Leafs are playing in the biggest hockey market in the world and now they have a proven head coach who can win games, but can he win in the playoffs? Toronto has a good goaltender in Toskala and they were able to rebuild the dressing room and there seems to be more chemistry in the room. The Leafs don’t have the high profile names on this team, but they have speed and speed kills. OVER 76.5 is one of my top plays. (5* BEST BET)



Canucks Total Regular Season Points

Over 85.5

Under 85.5

*Note: The Canucks are going to be rebuilding this season and the Sportsbooks agree, as they’ve put their season o/u at 85.5. The Canucks finished with 88 points last season and finished in last place in the Northwest division. The Canucks are lacking leadership on this team, as Linden and Naslund are gone and Luongo is their only shinning light. Play the UNDER 85.5. (5 BEST BET)



Capitals Total Regular Season Points

Over 93.5

Under 93.5

*Note: Here’s a funny line; the Caps finished with 94 points in 2007/2008 and have the most electric player in the NHL in Alexander Ovechkin. The Caps picked up a proven goalie in Jose Theodore over the summer and Nicklas Backstrom is coming off a great rookie season. Defense is my only question mark on this team, but with the offensive firepower on this team, they could afford shoot out nights. OVER 93.5 looks like an easy number for the Capitals.

CFL Football Predictions Week 14

Make sure to check back here each week, as CFL Handicapper Ron Raymond who is 77-42-1 with his 5* CFL picks since the year 2000, will be releasing his winning CFL Picks in the members area. Ron Raymond is one Canada’s most recognizable handicappers when it comes to the CFL and after starting slow out of the gate last year, Ron finished on a 9-1 run with his 5* CFL BEST BETS to finish 10-6 on the year! Ron is going for 8 winning seasons in a row, as Ron's 5* CFL picks have brought people to the winners circle 7 years in a row!

***ATTENTION CFL BETTORS*** Open a Sports Betting Account to Bet on CFL Games and Receive a 20% Deposit Bonus

Ron’s 2008 CFL Record:

• 5* CFL BEST BET Record: 4-7 ATS


• 1* CFL Record: 7-10 ATS

CFL Week 14 Previews

By CFL Handicapper Ron Raymond of Phoenixsports.com

Canadian Sports Handicapper Ron Raymond releases his CFL picks and analysis on Week 14. Ron Raymond is a pioneer of the online sports handicapping industry and has built over 20+ sports betting sites since 1996.

September, 23rd 2008

Edmonton (54) vs. Winnipeg (-2)

• Eskimos at Blue Bombers History: 7-6-0 (ATS) 6-7 (SU) 5-8-0 (O/U/P)

Ron’s Comment: Tough spot for the Eskimos, they’ve lost their confidence on offense and their defense can’t stop anything at this point. Plus, here’s a go against CFL System favoring the Blue Bombers tonight. When any CFL team played as a home/road team, coming off a game scored 7 points or less, total is between 51.5 to 54; teams in this spot are 2-16 SU and 3-15-0 ATS in this spot since ’96. Winnipeg is a team gaining their confidence, my only concern is their last 2 wins were against Toronto and Hamilton. If there’s one positive thing I’ve liked about the Blue Bombers offense of late, they are using Milt Stegall a bit more and that’s why you’re seeing positive results in the win column. If the temperature is “comfortable” on Friday night, this could be bad news for the Edmonton Eskimos, as the Bombers have more talented receivers and could expose this Eskimos secondary. Line seems funny, as the Eskimos are having the better season from a “big picture” point of view, but in the short term, this is a good spot to play on Winnipeg at -2.0. Furthermore, here’s a “feel good” statistics for Blue Bombers supporters; Winnipeg is 15-4 SU and ATS as a -3.0 point or less home favorite since 1996.

Ron’s forecast: Winnipeg 27 Edmonton 21

ATSCalculator.com: Edmonton to win by 4.09 points and the o/u to land on 54.15.

ATSDatabase.com Stat of the Game: When ANY CFL Team played as Home team as a Favorite -Total is between 51.5 to 54 -Before a non division game - Coming off a 2 game winning streak - Coming off a game scored 24 points or more; The Home Favorite is 12-0 SU in this role since ’96.

Calgary (-9.5) vs. Toronto (53.5)

• Stampeders at Argonauts History: 4-8-0 (ATS) 2-10 (SU) 4-8-0 (O/U/P)

Ron’s Comment: The Argos look like a team who will not win another game all season. They are playing QB roulette, they are releasing old defensive players and there’s no chemistry on this team, none! After two games, its obvious bringing in Don Matthews is looking more and more like a PR move as Milt Stegall predicted 2 weeks ago and this issue is deeper than just a coaching change. The Argonauts don’t have an identity on offense or defense; their top running back is a punt return specialist and they don’t have a go to receiver. QB’s are constantly looking over their shoulder to see when they are going to get the hook and it’s just one big gigantic mess. This whole mayhem started by releasing their heart and soul Noel Prefontaine and bringing in Vanderjagt. Furthermore, bringing in Kerry Joseph from the Roughriders was more of a PR stunt then leaving Michael Bishop grow into the QB position. The Stampeders are rolling nicely, winning 2 straight games and 5 of their last 6 contests. Furthermore, QB Henri Burris is having a great season and John Hufnagel could be included in the Coach of the Year running. The Stamps have not enjoyed their past trips to the Rogers Centre against the Argos; as they’ve not won since Sept 28th 2000 and have lost 7 straight in Hogtown. Therefore, I would recommend looking at the total in this game, as teams who have a bad history in certain cities, should not be overlooked.

Ron’s forecast: Calgary 34 Toronto 17

ATSCalculator.com: Calgary to win by 21.03 pts and the o/u to land on 54.95.

ATSDatabase.com Stat of the Game: When TORONTO team played as Home team as an Underdog -Vs Non Division Opponent -Vs Non Conference Opponent; The UNDER is 20-5-0 for the Argos in this spot since ’96.

Hamilton (54.5) vs. BC Lions (-13)

• Tigercats at Lions History: 6-6-0 (ATS) 2-10 (SU) 4-8-0 (O/U/P)

Ron’s Comment: Finally the Hamilton Tiger Cats addressed their Running back position by adding a proven Running back in Kenton Keith. The Ticats need to release or trade Lumsden in the offseason, he’s unable to stay healthy and it has impacted the Tiger Cats productivity on offense the last few seasons. Furthermore, no matter what people say, the Tiger Cats are more successful with Reggie Williams starting at QB, as the offense is not as productive with Printers at the helm. The Lions are 3-0 SU in their last 3 games and are coming off back to back games vs. the Roughriders. Caution, this is an ideal letdown spot here for the Lions, they are riding a 3-game winning streak and have the slumping Argos on deck. Hamilton has given the Lions a tough fight in their last 2 games at the dome and the last 3 games have gone under the total.
Ron’s forecast: BC Lions 34 Hamilton 25

ATSCalculator.com: BC to win by 9.48 pts and the o/u to land on 56.39.

ATSDatabase.com Stat of the Game: When ANY CFL Team played as a -10.0 or more Home Favorite -Before a non division game - Coming off a game scored 27 points or more - Coming off a 1 ATS win - Coming off a Road win as a Underdog; The UNDER is 7-4-1 for the Home Favorite in this role since ’97.

Saskatchewan (54.5) vs. Montreal (-7)

• Roughriders at Alouettes History: 8-5-0 (ATS) 2-11 (SU) 3-9-0 (O/U/P)

Ron’s Comment: Montreal has scored 30 or more points in 11 of their 12 games this season and their QB Anthony Calvillo is having a MVP type season. However, the Alouettes are in a classic letdown spot this Sunday vs. the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Saskatchewan has lost their last 2 games vs. a BC Lions team who are starting to peak and they have the defense that could shut down this Alouettes potent offense. Saskatchewan is another team who has not had success on their Eastern Road trips, as they are 2-11 SU in Montreal since 1996 and they are having QB issues. Montreal is getting too much respect in my view, because they are 6-1 SU in their last 7 games, but if you look at their Strength of Schedule chart at ATS Database, their SOS is 42.86%.

Ron’s forecast: Saskatchewan 24 Montreal 20

ATSCalculator.com: Montreal winning by 9.98 point and the o/u to land on 54.0.
ATSDatabase.com Stat of the Game: When SASKATCHEWAN team played as a 7 to 9.5 Road Underdog - Allowed score 27 points or more against; The Roughriders are 7-3-0 ATS in this role.

New NHL Coaches for the 2008 Season

New NHL Coaches for the 2008 Season

By Ron Raymond

September, 22nd 2008



NHL Coaches compared to other coaches from other sports has always left me wondering where exactly is their impact felt on the ice.



In football, the head coaches strategy is either attack on the ground or via the air or blitz the opposition’s offense all game long. Or, they can play the field position or time of possession game. There’s other strategy, but for the purpose of this article, I’m giving a nutshell point of view.



In baseball, managers have the choice of naming their starting pitcher and work their batting line up depending on which way the other pitcher throws; either he’s a lefty or righty. Plus, a baseball manager can bring in a relief pitcher at any time during a game and work his team’s base running philosophy in a mild or aggressive nature.



In basketball, to be honest, I’m a hockey guy and not a huge basketball philosopher, but I guess a manager’s strategy is about bringing in speed vs. strength or height, or bring in a shooter or a good rebounder. I’ve always felt hockey and basketball are games of “instinct” and sure you can put in some plays, but since you’re starting from a running position, it’s tougher to set plays, because you never know if you’re going to start on defense or offense right off the tip off or puck drop.



In football and baseball, you know when you’re going to be on offense and defense and you have time to rest between plays and get set, whereas in hockey and basketball, it’s all about instinct in the line of fire and I’ve always felt the coaches impact is more based on their leadership and motivational skills; then their X’s and O’s strategy.



With the 2008-09 NHL Season just a few weeks away, there’s a total of 9 new NHL coaches who will be behind their new teams bench this season. As you will see from my short write up, some have been promoted, while others have done the lateral shuffle.



The nine new coaches are the following;



Atlanta Thrashers: John Anderson

Anderson played for the Toronto Maple Leafs from 1977 to 1985 and played with the Nordiques, Whalers and finished his playing career in the AHL, IHL and a stint in Italy. Anderson coached the Chicago Wolves of the AHL and led the Wolves to 4 titles in 8 seasons. It’s one thing to coach in the minors, but it’s another to coach in the big leagues, but if his 4 AHL championship means anything, look for the Thrashers to be competitive our of the gate.



Colorado Avalanche: Tony Granato

Tony Granato is in his second stint with the Avs, where he coached them in 2002 to 2004 and he’s relieving Joel Quenneville of his duties. Granato played for 3 NHL teams including; New York Rangers, LA Kings and San Jose Sharks. Tony Granato has a reputation of being a hard ass, so look for the Avs to take no short cuts and play hard each night.



Florida Panthers: Terry Murray

Terry Murray is now Jacque Martin’s man in Florida, as Murray has a winning record of 360-288-83-6 in 737 games coached. The Panthers are getting an experience NHL coach, but I think the game has changed too much for a veteran guy like Murray. His Brother Bryan is the GM in Ottawa.



New York Islanders: Scott Gordon

Scott Gordon has never won anything in the AHL, but has lead the Providence Bruins to some 1st place division titles. This tells me they might be a good regular season team, but that’s about it. Jury is out on Gordon at the Pro level. Gordon was a journey man goaltender in the AHL, ECHL and IHL, so I guess it’s not surprising a GM like Garth Snow who played goalie in the NHL would give an ex goalie like Gordon a shot at the show.



Ottawa Senators: Craig Hartsburgh

Here’s the keys to the porch, have it home by midnight! Talk about walking into a dream job. Craig Hartsburgh is another coach with a heavy hand reputation and if the start of the pre season is any indication, the Senators will be a gritty team. What worries me about Hartsburgh, has never won at the pro level and his teams never did well during the regular season.



San Jose Sharks: Todd McLellan

Not sure what to expect from Todd McLellan, he’s a journeyman AHL player and was the assistant coach in Detroit. Don’t like this move, as I have a theory about hiring an assistant coach who just won the Stanley Cup, it’s nothing more than a PR move.



Tampa Bay Lightning: Barry Melrose

The Mullet is back! Barry Melrose is back coaching in the NHL and nothing proves my theory of head coaches being motivators more than bringing back Barry Melrose to coach in the NHL. There’s allot of coaches in the system, why bring a guy who’s been behind a mike the last 9 years to coach the number 1 draft pick in Stamkos and I’m not getting a good vibe with the new management team of the lightning, as they seem to be throwing money around like it’s candy and they are pissing off allot of people in the process.



Toronto Maple Leafs: Ron Wilson

Bit surprise the Leafs would go out and get another unproven coach, Wilson has never won in the playoffs, but he’s always had his team prepared and has 4 division titles. The Leafs are a mess right now, management is trying to clean up the culture of the room and bringing in Wilson to stir the pot might work for the first 3 season, but if they don’t make the playoffs, it’s going to be a rough ride.



There’s a great link for all the 2008-09 NHL head coaches at Wikipedia:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_National_Hockey_League_head_coaches

Betting on NHL Dogs to win the Cup

The NHL season is right around the corner and the Sportsbooks have finally released their NHL futures odds on who will win the 2008-2009 Stanley Cup. The number one rule when forecasting a NHL futures bet, you have to keep in mind the playoffs are a different season it’s all about “survival of the fittest” and “goaltending”.

Right now every media outlet is focusing on the regular season and how many points the superstars will put up for their fantasy owners. That’s all nice and dandy, but these superstars normally fade away in the playoffs and it’s the “muckers and grinders” and goalies who will be your best friend come next April!

Let’s face it, anybody can tell you Detroit and Pittsburgh are good Stanley Cup bets, but there’s no value or hedging opportunities when taking such high favorites. Here’s what I like to do at the beginning of the season and using this NHL betting strategy will give you a better opportunity to make some money.

Try to find 4 to 5 teams which have a medium to longshot opportunities to make the playoffs. For example; if you place $100 on a team like the Phoenix Coyotes at +7575 to win the Stanley Cup, you will have a great opportunity to “hedge” your bet if they make the playoffs.

Here’s what I mean by “hedging” your bet. Let’s say you place $100 on the Phoenix Coyotes to win the Stanley Cup and that $100 pays out $7575 dollars if they win the cup. Therefore, just by Phoenix making the playoffs, you’ve already made money, because what you will do is start betting against the Coyotes once they start getting close on being eliminated. What I normally do is hedge my original deposit in round 1 and 2, because if you start hedging big right off the bat and the Coyotes keep winning, your net gain will be lower in the later rounds because you will be trying to recuperate your prior loses in Round 1 and 2. Normally in Round 1 and 2, I would just hedge my original deposit.

Again, this is where your risk level will come into play, as you will have the option of passing on some games that you feel your futures ticket can win. In 2004, I made $4000 on a 44-1 bet on the Calgary Flames and was able to hedge my way for a profit.

Here are the teams I would recommend laying money on to win the Stanley Cup and will give you the best hedging opportunity.

Colorado Avalanche +4373 (Pinnacle): What I like about the Avalanche is the grit they have on this team and with players like Tucker, Smyth and Laperriere; those are the type of players who will turn it up a notch come April. Peter Budaj is the question mark in nets, but he outplayed Theodore 2 years ago and now that Theodore is gone to Washington, he might have that pressure off his back knowing he’s the go to guy for Tony Granato. Furthermore, the Peter Forsberg rumors are out there and don’t be surprise if Forsberg gives the Avs another shot if he’s healthy. The AVS will need a proven QB on the power play and they will have the option of picking up a rent a player come the trade deadline time, so take the risk and buy a Avs futures.

Carolina +5050 (Pinnacle): The Canes have impact players on this team and with a Stanley Cup Champion goalie like Cam Ward between the pipes, you have a chance every night. Furthermore, when you look at the players in front of him like Eric Staal, Ray Whitney and Rod Brind’Amour on board, this team have the right playoff grit to get the job done. Plus, with the addition of Joe Corvo at the trade deadline last year, Corvo will give the Canes some valuable points from the D position and that’s huge in a league where parity only gives clubs 1 QB per team, if they are lucky to own one! Plus, one of the most important factor about the Canes in which I like them at +5050, they win at home. In the last 3 seasons, they own a home record of 86-51 SU and that’s huge when you consider they will need those points if they are fighting for the 6th to 8th spot. Remember, our goal is to make the playoffs here and then we hedge.

Edmonton +4373 (Pinnacle): One thing I love about a Kevin Lowe hockey team, they play hard and leave everything they have on the ice! When you look at this Oilers team, you have to remember, they play in a Canadian City, so you’re always going to have an energized home crowd and when a Canadian team is not winning, the pressure the players, coaches and management go through is good for the futures shareholders, as management will not sit around, they will move and get things done. I really like this goaltending duo of Roloson and Garon; as both players can be starters anywhere in this league. Furthermore, if the Oilers make the playoffs, they have some good playoff grinders like Penner, Cole, and Staios who will not shy away from the rough stuff. Playoff hockey is about fear, winning every shift and goaltending, the Oilers are a bit above average in all 3 of these categories.

Toronto Maple Leafs +10000 (Carib sports): Well, if you’re going to carry a four leaf clover in your pocket, might as well make it a blue one! Why not, the Leafs have a top 5 goaltender in Toskala, Thomas Kaberle is a 50 point plus defenseman and they have an experience head coach in Ron Wilson who will not pussy foot around when tough decisions have to be made. Carib Sports has posted the Leafs at 100-1 and when you consider the Leafs have a 65-58 SU record at home the last 3 season, if they can win 45% or higher of their road games, they might have a shot at making the 7th or 8th spot. Again, you have a Canadian team playing in the biggest hockey market in the world, so the pressure from the outside will force the Leafs to stay focused and there’s no room for a wait and see approach. Leafs have to make the playoffs and with a solid goalie like Toskala, I believe it’s worth the risk.

So, we are laying $400 on these 4 teams; which will give us $23,796.00 of hedging opportunities if they can all 4 make the playoffs. Just 1 or 2 of these teams making the playoffs will be worth the small investment.

There you have it, hope you enjoyed this article and visit our posting forum at www.atsdatabase.com to talk about more hockey betting.

NFL Week 2 Predictions

The NFL Grind – Week 2

By Sports Handicapper Ron Raymond

Wednesday, September 10th 2008,



As a sports handicapper, you always have the mice running in the wheel; it’s always a daily challenge to find an edge over the numbers. Ever feel like you’ve handicap your week to perfection, only to end up 1-5 or 0-6 against the spread? We’ve all had those weeks; we’ve crunched numbers, dug up injuries from unconventional sources etc…its called paralysis by analysis or information overload, when we should be going with the “less is more” theory.

Nevertheless, this is what makes handicapping the NFL so much fun, just when you think you have things figured out, application X to your theory comes into play and you overlooked it in your research. For example, my “x-factor last week was from the Seahawks vs. Bills game, my top play was the UNDER in this matchup, but 2 special team plays cost me the cover. But it’s tough to handicap team’s mental breakdowns or how a punt returner can escape 11 players in a phone booth!
Here are some X-FACTORS to consider this week in your NFL handicapping.

Oakland (36) vs. Kansas City (-3.5): No Brodie Coyle this week for the Chiefs, he’s out 2-4 weeks with a separated shoulder and expect the Chiefs to go with a 2-QB system says Herm Edwards. When the OAKLAND RAIDERS played at home or on the road during Last 2 Years and lost last game by 27 Points or Less; The Raiders are 3-18 SU in this spot.

ATSDatabase.com Edge: When the Chiefs are at home on 6 days rest during the month of September and they care coming off a lost on grass; The UNDER is 7-3-0 for the Chiefs in this role.

Tennessee (37.5) vs. Cincinnati (-1): Might be a blessing in disguise to have Collins start, as the Titans are too much run oriented with Vince Young in the line up. Bengals need to find a running game if they intend to compete again. Chris Perry is not the answer!

ATSDatabase.com Edge: When Tennessee is a PK’em to +3 underdogs on 6 days rest and allowed 10 points or less AGAINST in their last game; The OVER is 8-3-1 for the Titans in this situation.

Indianapolis (-2) vs. Minnesota (43.5): Joseph Addai is expected to play vs. the Vikings in Week 2 and Peyton Manning looked rusty last week vs. the Bears, after skipping the pre season. Plus, when the Vikings are an Underdog the last 4 Years and lost their last game by 5 Points or More; The Vikings are 3-7 SU in the next game in this role L4Y.

ATSDatabase.com Edge: When the Colts are a road team, total is between 41.5 and 44 and they are coming off a loss in a dome; The UNDER is 9-1-0 for the Colts in this spot since ‘84.

New Orleans (41.5) vs. Washington (-1): The Saints are coming off an impressive come from behind win over the Bucs and the Skins will be looking to rebound off their Thursday Night season debut in the League Opener. Plus, when the Washington Redskins are a home Favorite vs. a Non Division opponent and they are coming off a road lost; The Skins are 16-4 SU in this spot since ’83.

ATSDatabase.com Edge: When NEW ORLEANS SAINTS team played as a pk to 3 Underdog - Vs Conference Opponent - Playing on grass surface; the OVER is 9-2-0 for the Saints in this spot.

Green Bay (-3) vs. Detroit (44.5): The Lions underachieved last week in Atlanta and the Packers need to be cautious, as they are in a nice letdown spot after their national spotlight Monday Night win over the Vikes.

ATSDatabase.com Edge: When the Packers are a Road team vs. a division Opponent on 5 days rest; Green Bay is 9-2-0 ATS in this role.
Buffalo (37.5) vs. Jacksonville (-5.5): The Bills are coming off a nice home win in Week 1 and seems to be the public favorite dog this week, but the Jags are tough at home with their 13-4 SU record L2Y and own a 12-5-0 ATS mark in those 2 years.

ATSDatabase.com Edge: When the Jaguars are at home the last 5 Years and lost their last game by 7 Points or Less; The Jags are 8-3-0 ATS and 10-1 SU in their next game the L5Y.

*Note: Ron Raymond is a professional handicapper and you can get more of these great Football stats and trends from the College and Pro’s at www.atsdatabase.com