Columbus doesn't really "do" unders. The Blue Jackets haven't won very often recently, but they sure can put the puck in the net. They unfortunately can't keep it out with any frequency either. Their last 4 games have all ended over 6.5, and all have been close, with overtime figuring prominently.

With a 9th rated defense and a 27th rated defense, the Islanders are rightly known as a "defense first" team, but that hasn't been the case lately, with just 2 of 8 going under the total. They also have a poor track record in their last 10, and are not a strong home team. They have flashed a bit of offense lately, and a game against Columbus offers a fine opportunity for some more.

I am more than a little surprised at the odds for Thursday's match-up. Any time there is a 5.5 total involving Columbus, I am on the over, and you should be too.