This is an 8* CUSTOMER APPRECIATION PLAY on the Avalanche.

So far the home ice advantage has meant everything in this series. Expect that trend to continue here.

Colorado rolled over the Blues in four games, and then it hammered the fatigued Knights 7-1 in Game 1. The Avs had to hold on for a 3-2 OT win in Game 2.

Then the series shifted to Vegas and the Knights have rallied to tie the series back up.

These teams are absolutely evenly matched. Their offensive and defensive numbers are almost identical.

So why will the Avs bounce back and win Game 5? Colorado is a near-perfect 7-1 in its last eight in trying to revenge two straight losses to an opponent.

I also think that the tables have now turned. The Knights had to play with desperation to tie this series back up, and now that they've done that, a letdown is imminent.

The Avs return home where they look to move to 6-0 their last six here (also note that they're 12-2 in their last 14 following a loss of three or more goals.)

Vegas is just 3-7 in its last ten in this building. Expect all of the above listed trends to continue.

The play is COLORADO.

Good luck, NP