CAR vs. CGY Pick: CAR -1.5

Mark Jankowski returns to Calgary with goals in six straight games and a Carolina team that has won seven in a row. His former club could use some of that scoring. The Flames have managed just 14 goals through seven games while allowing 35, and tonight’s visitor offers little relief.

We’re taking Carolina -1.5 at +115.

The Hurricanes have scored 32 goals during their winning streak, but their shot numbers tell the more useful story. Carolina is generating nearly 33 attempts on net per game while allowing fewer than 22. That gives its forwards repeated opportunities to attack without constantly having to dig the puck out of their own end. Against a Calgary defense already having trouble getting stops, those extra possessions should matter.

Jankowski’s run has helped Carolina absorb the absences of Seth Jarvis, Jordan Staal and Taylor Hall. There’s a heavier workload for the available forwards tonight, though, with the Hurricanes coming off Saturday’s 3–2 win in Winnipeg. Calgary has the rest advantage. Carolina needs efficient shifts and clean changes rather than an evening spent scrambling back toward its own net.

Brandon Bussi starts opposite Devin Cooley, and neither goalie has opened the season particularly well. That puts more weight on the teams in front of them. Carolina has been limiting its opponent’s opportunities; Calgary has been allowing enough goals to overwhelm what little offense it produces.

The Hurricanes won four straight games by at least two before Saturday’s narrower result. That stretch shows they’ve been able to turn their territorial advantage into more than a one-goal lead. Calgary’s defensive struggles give Carolina an opportunity to do it again, and the plus-money return makes the puck line our choice.

SLS Daily Pick: Carolina Hurricanes -1.5 (+115). Playable at +110 or better.