Free Picks: New Jersey Devils vs. Boston Bruins

After a season of rookies entering the lineup, many Devils’ players look to impress in their Sophmore year. As for the Bruins, Boston aims to be a top team in the league once again. Bounced from the bubble last season, expect the Bruins to come back guns blazing. Rask is back in net, but how will he look after missing months of action?

The Boston Bruins and New Jersey Devils are looking to start the season on the right foot in a stacked division. With so many potential playoff teams in the East Division, one slip up could be the difference-maker in being a playoff team or an outsider in the NHL postseason.

Starting with the Bruins, Boston has much to prove this season. After failing expectations last season, the Bruins want to once again prove they are top dog in the East. Unfortunately for the B’s, they are dealing with injuries to open the year.

David Pastrnak is expected to miss some time until mid-February. One of the best players on the team, Pastrnak is critical to Boston’s success on the power play.

While the Bruins are missing a huge player in Pastrnak, the Devils are bruised as well. Jesper Bratt and Nico Hischier are out but should return soon. Sami Vatanen is dealing with a VISA issue and will not be in the lineup for opening night.

If anyone was debating who would get the start for Boston, it has been confirmed by Bruce Cassidy that Tuukka Rask will be in goal. Obviously, Rask is the better goalie over Halak so it makes sense that Cassidy would return to his number one.

Even with the talent on both sides, I think this contest stays under in the total goals of 5.5 (Betway). Over the last 10 games against the Bruins, New Jersey has managed to score 1.90 goals per game. I expect Boston to do a lot of work offensively, but I am unsure the Devils will be able to contribute much on the scoreboard.

New Jersey is missing a number of key players on both offense and defense. If Hischier and Bratt were in the lineup, I think I would take the over. But with two of the Devils’ top playmakers on the sideline, I don’t see how New Jersey will generate much offense.

• New Jersey are 1-4 SU against Boston at home in last 5.
• The total has gone UNDER in 8 of the Devils last 11 games.
• The UNDER has hit in 13 of Boston’s last 18 games.
• Boston are 1-4 SU in last 5 games.