This is a 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK on the OVER Bruins/Capitals.

Both teams are pretty good on both ends of the ice.

Boston averages 2.93 GPG, while allowing only 2.39.

Washington averages 3.36 GPG, while conceding 2.88.

Honestly, I don't think it would be difficult to write a convincing argument for this game to either go OVER or UNDER the total.

So why do we think that today's total is going to fly OVER the posted number?

Both teams ended the regular season strong, but in different fashion. Boston was able to get its goaltending and defense under control, allowing two goals or less in eight of its last ten games (the offense though was even more impressive down the stretch, as it posted three goals or more in eight out of its last tne games.)

Washington just pushed the pace whenever possible, as it scored four or more goals in six of its last nine, while allowing three or more goals in five of its last nine.

If this series opened in Boston, I'd likely be on the UNDER here, but because it's in the Nation's capital, I'm expecting the home side to dictate the tempo.

Look for a faster-paced, and ultimately higher-scoring OVER in this playoff matchup.

Good luck, NP