Stephen Nover

It's the regular season. That means things are going well for Tampa Bay. The Lightning have won 10 in a row. They've been beating good teams, too, going 12-1 the past 13 times versus above .500 opponents. 

 Colorado was hot - for a while. But now the Avalanche have dropped two in a row scoring only three goals in those games and are banged-up. Starting goalie Philipp Grubauer suffered a lower-body injury in the Avalanche's last game against the Kings this past Saturday and isn't likely to play. Forward Matt Calvert also was injured in that game. Center Nazem Kadri is out long-term.  Consequently, Tampa Bay has gotten healthy with Steven Stamkos and reigning Hart Trophy winner Nikita Kucherov both back after being out.  The Lightning have won 68 percent of their last 79 road contests going 54-25.  Tampa Bay has won during its last four trips to Colorado. The Lightning won't lack motivation to make it five straight road wins against the Avalanche as Colorado beat them, 6-2, in Tampa back in October.  (Editor's note: Stephen Nover is a blazing 20-5-1 on his last 26 college basketball premium plays and 13-7 on his past 20 hockey plays. Stephen has both a college basketball and hockey play going today in addition to this free selection. Don't miss any of Stephen's plays, all of which come with his trademark, in-depth, unique analysis.) 

It doesn't happen that often, but when it does you have to strongly consider Washington. The Capitals are a road 'dog to Las Vegas. Washington has won nine of the last 11 times (82 percent) it has been a 'dog.