This is a 10* TOTAL OF THE NIGHT on the UNDER Sens/Nucks.

The major knock on both teams in the early going is poor defensive play and "hit or miss" goaltending.

The Canucks are just 2-5, one point ahead of the 1-3-1 Senators. Vancouver has seen the total go 6-1 to the "over," while Ottawa has seen it go 3-2.

So if we're just going by the numbers, the OVER would be the way to go here, but of course wagering on sports is not about adding up averages and calling it conclusive.

More than ever the "situation" and "emotion" is coming into play this year, as team's prepare to see each other at least twice, but three and even four times in a row.

I expect both teams to put an added emphasis on the defensive end in the opener of this three-game set.

The Canucks' goaltending has been a mess, but they catch a break here facing this poor Senators unit.

I think the stage is set for a defensive affair in the lone NHL game on Monday night; the play is the under!

Good luck, NP