Carolina Hurricanes vs. Colorado Avalanche u5.5 (-105 odds)
Fri October 23rd 2009 9:05p
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The Colorado Avalanche may the most defensively improved team in the NHL, and we look for them to keep this home meeting with the Carolina Hurricanes Under the total.

Defense was a major liability for Colorado last season, but this year, they are allowing just 2.11 goals per game, third best in the league behind only the Phoenix Coyotes and the Buffalo Sabres. Even more impressive is the fact that seven of their nine games have been on the road, and they have allowed a total of two goals in two home games. Craig Anderson has started all nine games in net, and he has posted an excellent .934 save percentage with a 2.06 GAA.

As for the Hurricanes, they are struggling offensively, averaging 2.10 goals per game overall and a dismal 1.75 goals per game on the road. They have exceeded three goals just once in eight games this season, and it is unlikely that they will rediscover their offense here the way the Avs are playing defense right now. The biggest asset for Carolina right now may be goalie Cam Ward, and his success is usually the only reason the Canes are not blown out more often.

That does bode well for the Under though, and such should be the case again tonight.

NHL Free Pick: Hurricanes, Avalanche Under 5.5 (-105)

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