NHL Over/Under Lines: It’s Betting Time!

Apr 5, 2014; Raleigh, NC, USA; New Jersey Devils forward Dainius Zubrus (8) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the Carolina Hurricanes in the third period at PNC Arena. The Devils won 3-1. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

New Jersey Devils

Over/Under: 86 1/2 points

Bet: Over (-125)

Another one I just can’t figure out for the life of me.  The Devils finished last season with 88 points and on the outside looking-in of the playoff picture.  That included a historic 0 and 13 record in shootouts, a feat that seems difficult to accomplish again even if they try.

The Devils brought in free-agent forward Mike Cammalleri to bolster its 27th ranked offense.  Cammalleri may not be the 30+ goal scorer he was early in his career, but he’s a sure bet to pot between 20 and 25.  The team also took a flyer on Martin Havlat in the hopes he can regain some of the touch that led to him receiving two big paydays already.

But the biggest upgrade is in net where Cory Schneider has finally ascended to clear-cut number one status.  To be fair, he should have been the clear number one last year, but the organization felt a loyalty and the need to pay homage to icon Martin Brodeur in net.  Despite Schneider’s vastly superior numbers (1.97 goals against average, .921 saver percentage compared to Brodeur’s 2.51 goals against average and .901 saver percentage), Brodeur played in 39 games while Schneider only saw action in 45 games.  It doesn’t take a huge leap of faith to think that 60+ games of Schneider should have this team not only well beyond the 86 1/2 point total set by Bovada, but a playoff spot too.

Get in on the Devils now before the line rightfully jumps up five to seven points.