Not only are the Avalanche in circle-the-wagons mode, but they are in a big revenge spot, too, after the Blackhawks surprised them, 2-1, at Colorado eight days ago. Blackhawks third-string rookie goalie Collin Delia made 35 saves in his season debut to thwart the Avalanche.

The Avalanche were minus $2.45 favorites against the Blackhawks. Stunned by that loss, Colorado went on the road and lost to the Coyotes and Golden Knights. Now they are back home for the rematch against Chicago and heavy favorites once again. So I'm laying the 1 1/2 goals to knock off the heavy juice and get a plus price in what I envision as a kill spot for the superior Avalanche.

Colorado is sixth in the NHL in goals per game. The Blackhawks have the worst defense in the league. The Avalanche have film and first-hand scouting reports now on Delia. The Blackhawks are traveling after beating the Wild at home on Thursday, 5-2. The Wild have lost five in a row so the Blackhawks hosted them at a good time. Chicago is 8-23 following a victory and 2-7 the past nine times when playing on one day rest.