This is a 10* NON-CONF TOM on the UNDER Bruins/Avs.

When I bet totals it's almost always primarily because of what I feel is a great SITUATIONAL REASON.

And that's the case here for this one on Wednesday night.

Both teams have been playing to really high-scoring games to open the season, but the situation here finally points to more of a defensive battle in my opinion.

Colorado has seen the total go OVER in all three of its games, but it's also 0-3.

Clearly it's going to be all hands on deck for the Avs.

Despite who gets the call in net for either side, I like the UNDER in this one, as dating to last year the Avs have seen the total go UNDER the number in seven of their last ten after playing to three or more straight OVERs in a row.

And then for Boston, it's seen three of its first four go OVER the number. And that includes a 4-3 home loss to the Panthers last time out (but that's also significant to note, as Boston has seen the total go UNDER the number in three of its last four after a home loss as a favorite.)

I think the general betting public will once again be quick to back a high-scoring game between these teams, but while the majority goes one way, I'm going the other.

The play is the UNDER.

Good luck, NP