This is an 8* CUSTOMER APPRECIATION PLAY on the Hawks.

Both teams have struggled this season. Chicago is 0-4 and Vancouver is 1-4.

Over the first week of the year, I base my final decisions/picks differently than I do for the bulk of the regular season.

For us, this play isn't about who or who isn't playing for either team tonight. From our way of handicapping games, this one definitely sets up well for the home side from a number of different situational angles.

Chicago is 7-1 in its last eight after three or more straight losses in a row. The Blackhawks are also 8-2 in their last ten home games as a favorite in the -115 to -135 range.

With five whole nights off after this game before an extended home stretch, I say the lowly Canucks get caught "looking ahead."

In our opinion, this is the very definition of "great line value." The play is CHICAGO.

Good luck, NP