The set-up: The Kings are 19-29 and the Avs are 21-26. Clearly neither side is happy where it sits currently, but after a rare 2-1 road win over Dallas, I think that LA suffers a predictable letdown here. The Avs though will be eager to get back on track here after a 5-2 road loss to the Senators. LA is averaging only 2.00 goals over its last 11 games. Kings' net minder Jon Quick is just 2-6 with a 2.96 GAA on the road. The Avs average 3.25 goals and allow 2.85 at home.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but LA is just 12-13 (-3.8 units) this year vs. teams with losing records, while Colorado is 7-2 in its last nine home games following a non-conference road loss by two goals or more. Lay the price with confidence.

8* Colorado.