10* Flames (ASSASSIN)

We'd say this is a "public" play, but for the most part the "public" doesn't even play the NHL. The NHL is one sport that we don't take the "splits" into consideration. These two teams are familiar with each other and we just can't understate how important we feel that the home ice advantage will prove to be in this one. The Jets made the playoffs but lost to Vegas in the first round. Both teams are at "crossroads" this season, for different reasons. Note that Calgary led the league in 30 one-goal losses last year and missed the playoffs by just two points. Calgary enters this season with a young cast of new players, but also with a chip on its collective shoulder after missing the playoffs last year. Winnipeg has plenty of contract issues and other off ice things to deal with this year, and after the first round exit, we're expecting hangover here to open the season; lay the price, the play is indeed on Calgary!

AAA Sports