2016-17 NHL Betting Tips: Blue Jackets at Penguins + Wednesday April 5th Games

The NHL continues Wednesday with a massive 13 game slate. As the season winds down and the playoff picture starts to become a little clearer, we take a look at some of the key games across the league this Wednesday, the 5th of April below. 

Columbus Blue Jackets at Pittsburgh Penguins (9.00 am AEST)

Game of the day features two teams ranked second and third in the Metropolitan Division. Columbus enter Wednesday’s game eager for a win after dropping the last three games straight including a lose to the league leaders the Washington Capitals in a physical contest. The Jackets could be without defenseman rookie Zach Werenski for this matchup as he was on the receiving end of a Alex Ovechkin hit. After the OT lose to Carolina the Jackets have had a tough run, traveling to Chicago to play the Blackhawks then back home to the Caps. In a crucial game Pittsburgh won't give an inch in this game, as Columbus needs to find some offense coming into the playoffs. The Jackets have scored four goals in the past three games with offense coming to a holt.

The Penguins have snuck into second position with victories in the last two. The Pens love playing at home and have a record of 30-6-4 coming into this game. In an up and down season where injuries have plagued the Pens, they have somehow made it this far. The Pens have great offense but have had a breakdown in that area of late. With Malkin, Kunitz and and Letang out it's hard to imagine how they will make it past Columbus. I think puck possession is crucial and the Pens are solid when their forecheck is up to scratch. They are one of the best at keeping the puck in their zone for extended periods, and with the home crowd behind them, this certainly will create plays.

TIP: Columbus Blue Jackets to win - $2.26 at Sportsbet

Detroit Red Wings at Ottawa Senators (9.30am AEST)

The Red Wings are no chance for a playoff spot this year as they sit 8th in the Atlantic Division. The Wings have lost the last three but have been competitive in the last two, and are one of those teams that can cause upsets late in the season.

Let's just say Ottawa are holding on. They too have dropped the last four straight and are starting to make things hard holding onto that wildcard spot. A win here could almost seal a spot depending on what Tampa Bay can do. Ottawa are known for defense, the last four games they have given up 15 goals.

TIP: Ottawa Senators -1.5 - Check closer to game for price

Calgary Flames at Anaheim Ducks (10.00am AEST)

We head west for the Calgary vs Anaheim game. Both teams have secured a playoff berth, but with a week still left of the regular season, both teams are still trying to better their standings. The Flames have first place in the wildcard slot, with Nashville one point behind and the Sharks three points clear in third spot. The Flames lost last game to Anaheim as they play back to back games against each other. Calgary has lost 24 regular season games straight to Anaheim at home dating back to 2004.

Anaheim got the 4-3 win over Calgary only days ago and still lead the Pacific Division by two points, clear of Edmonton. Calgary have more explosive offense as Anaheim are 22nd in the league for shots on goal. But the Ducks have all round great defense and are fourth in penalty kill. This game could go either way and I'm thinking Calgary will break the drought in a close battle.

TIP: Calgary Flames to win - $2.80 at Ladbrokes

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