The Coach's NHL Puckline PUNISHER
(NHL) Calgary vs. Los Angeles,
Point Spread: 1.50 | -190.00 Calgary (Away)
Result: Win
The Calgary Flames are hot, coming off three consecutive wins as they'll enter Staples Center to battle it out with Pacific Division rivals the Los Angeles Kings tonight. I don't think hot and the Kings are words anyone would use in the same sentence at the moment, with the hosts dropping seven of their last nine. An outright win for the Flames is not out of the question, but I prefer a one goal cushion with a play on the puckline.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Defensive Woes - The Kings have allowed 21 goals over their last six games, going 10-for-17 on the penalty kill. Their top netminder Jonathan Quick is ice-cold, going win-less over five appearances since New Years Day.

2. Home Woes - Los Angeles is 1-2-3 over a seven game home-stand it will conclude tonight. It has dropped five of the last seven meeting in L.A, and another loss could be imminent as the Flames have won four straight away from home.

3. X-Factor - The Kings have lost seven straight shootouts, going 1-for-7 for the season.

Selection: This is a play on the Calgary Flames +1.5 (8*)