The set-up: I'm expecting a shootout here between these two hungry clubs. The Blue Jackets are 19-23 and the Kings are 17-26. On paper, both teams have terrible offenses. That's the reason why this total is as low as it is. But I think that the overall situation that each team finds itself in coming into this contest will help in pushing this total over the number sooner, rather than later. The Jackets are desperate for a win and facing LA goaltender Jon Quick, who has conceded three goals in each of his last two starts is just what the doctor ordered to get their offense untracked.

The pick: Note as well that Columbus has seen the total go over the number in eight of its last 11 road games after playing to the "under" in five or more straight contests, while LA has seen the total go over in interestingly seven of its last ten after allowing four goals or more. I believe this faster paced contest will easily eclipse the posted total.

10* TOTAL OF THE MONTH on the Jackets/Kings OVER.