The New York Rangers failed to record a third consecutive win when they ran into the red hot Pittsburgh Penguins and suffered a 3-2 overtime loss. Tonight's opponent should be easier to overcome as the Carolina Hurricanes have managed only two wins in their last nine games, and I think we'r getting a good price on the visitors at PNC Arena Thursday night.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. The Rangers' Recent Games - New York had scored 14 goals through three games prior to Sunday's loss to Pittsburgh. They're 5-for-13 on the power play in that span.

2. Previous Meetings - The Rangers have already defeated the Canes three times this season. They won 4-1 on the road here on Jan. 22 to improve to 9-1 in the last 10 meetings in Carolina. Henrik Lundqvist has a 1.26 goals-against average in seven straight wins over the Hurricanes.

3. X-Factor - The Canes dealt Eric Staal to the Rangers just before the deadline. He'll face his old club for the first time tonight and is coming in hot after tallying both of New York's goals Tuesday.

Selection: This is a play on the New York Rangers (10*)