The set-up: If you're watching and wagering on this contest, then the story lines and strengths/weaknesses of each side is well known to this point. St. Louis has been one of the hottest teams in the second half of the season, riding the play of red hot rookie goaltender Jordan Binnington. The Bruins are loaded with talent and experience and they got "hot" at the right time at the end of the season. Boston has an equally adept net minder in Tuukka Rask. These teams are in fact very evenly matched, but I think that the home ice advantage can't be overlooked in Game 1.

The pick: St. Louis was 28-22 on the road, averaging 2.84 goals and allowing 2.40 in those contests. Boston is 35-15 at home, averaging 3.42 goals and allowing 2.40 in those contests. I expect the Bruins to ride the wave of emotion and find a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Boston Bruins

10* play