New York Islanders at Ottawa Senators 
(-235, 5.5)
There wasn’t much for Sens backers to like about Tuesday’s shutout loss to the Canadiens. Craig Hartsburg’s club put up little fight against its division rival during the 4-0 shellacking.
After the game, Hartsburg defended his regular punching bag and star centre - Jason Spezza.
“I thought Jason played hard, he competed and he had some chances,” the Senators coach told the Ottawa Sun. “If he plays that hard every night, he’ll have no complaints from me.”
Spezza’s days in the Canadian capital may be numbered. General manager Bryan Murray has long been frustrated by the playmaker’s inconsistent effort and there are rumours floating around that the former Ice Dog could be traded this season.
A match against the Islanders should provide the confidence the Sens sorely need.
Pick: Senators
Los Angeles Kings at Dallas Stars (-190, 5.5)
The Kings and Stars finish a home-and-home series tonight in Dallas. Los Angeles won Tuesday night in a shootout, boosting its win streak to three games.
The California club finished last season tied for the fewest points (71) and hasn’t won three consecutive matches since last January.
“It’s great,” winger Alexander Frolov told the Los Angeles Times after the victory. “I think we get some confidence now.”
Dallas received some good news Wednesday afternoon when the team was told captain Brenden Morrow would not be suspended for his instigator penalty at the end of Tuesday’s contest.
Expect the Stars to rebound with a home win against the lowly Kings.
Pick: Stars