The set-up: Both teams are obviously not too thrilled with where they are right now. Minnesota is 5-10 and the Sharks are 5-11. The Wild come in off a rare road win over the Ducks and I think a predictable return to mediocrity is imminent vs. this hungry home side. The Sharks had lost five in a row before a win over the Hawks last time out, so clearly they're not going to be taking anything for granted. And if recent history is any precedence, then there's no question that San Jose has to be loving it chances here, as it would sweep all three contests a year ago.

The pick: Note that San Jose is 8-3 in its last 11 home games vs. a team with a road winning percentage of less than .400, while Minnesota is a poor 3-18 in its last 21 following a victory. I think this overall situation highly favors the home side and it makes this a price in which I have no issues at all in laying.

10* PLAY-BOOK on the San Jose Sharks.