8* play on Chicago.

The St. Louis Blues took command of this Western Conference first-round series with an ugly 1-0 overtime win Wednesday. One could argue that the Blackhawks were the dominant team though winning the shots 35-18, and I think the Hawks will get a better return on their shots tonight.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. The Return Of Duncan Keith - The reigning Conn Smythe Trophy winner is back from a six-game suspension and the return of Keith should provide a big boost. After a close Game 1 he could very well end up being the deciding factor in tonight's game.

2. Experience - The Hawks have won eight of their last 11 Conference Quarterfinals games while the Blues have lost eight of their last 11, and let's not forget that Chicago is the reigning Stanley Cup champion.

3. X-Factor - The Blackhawks were blanked on five chances with the man advantage Wednesday but finished the regular-season going 7-for-19 on the power play over their last five games.

Selection: This is a play on the Chicago Blackhawks (8*)