The Coach's Puck Line PUNISHER
(NHL) Toronto vs. Vancouver,
Point Spread: -1.50 | 138.00 Vancouver (Home)
Result: Win
The Vancouver Canucks coming into tonight's game with double revenge on their minds. First of all they'll be looking to bounce back from a 4-0 setback at home against the Kings Thursday, but also to get back at the Maple Leafs who beat them 5-2 at Toronto earlier in the season. With the visitors coming straight off a 6-3 loss at Calgary last night I expect the hosts to take advantage of a tired team here in Vancouver.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Situational/Motivational - There's little wonder why Toronto has lost four of its last five games as it has given up 22 goals over that span. And why would its players care to play defense with the season all but over already? The Nucks are in a different situation as it's still third in the Pacific Division, one point ahead of the Kings despite the loss to them Thursday. They'll be boosted by the return of defensemen Kevin Bieksa and Yannick Weber plus forwards Brad Richardson and Chris Higgins for this contest, and a win is a must to keep up in the super tight Western Conference.

2. Home Cookin' - The Nucks have won six straight meetings in Vancouver against the Leafs and have claimed five of their last seven overall at Rogers Arena. Toronto is a measly 8-22-5 on the road on the season and have won only one of its last 19 away from home.

3. X-Factor - Toronto has given up a goal on the penalty kill in six of its last seven games.

Selection: This is a play on the Vancouver Canucks -1.5. (9*)