WA-PIT-PlayoffHopesIncreasing LAS VEGAS -- Sitting on an 8-1 win streak with Best Bets as we head into the final day of 2024, and there is plenty of action to behold. I'm going to look at a Pacific Division showdown in Calgary, where the Flames return home from a quick two-game road trip in San Jose and Vegas to host the Vancouver Canucks. Let's do a deep dive into this one: WHY VANCOUVER: The Canucks have lost four of five, and yet they've scored four goals in three consecutive games. There is motivation to beat the Flames, as Vancouver is ahead in the division by one point, 42-41. The calendar turn is significant from a mental standpoint, as a win tonight could boost confidence and morale heading into the final stretch before the teams break for the 4 Nations Faceoff. WHY CALGARY: The Flames were doused two nights back in Las Vegas, as the Golden Knights shut out Calgary, 3-0. Prior to that, though, they had won two straight and it looked they might be building a little momentum. This is good spot to bounce back, as they're opening a three-game homestand they most certainly can sweep, with Utah and Nashville on deck. A win over the Canucks puts the Flames in fourth place. All betting lines are from Bet365 and are subject to change. Hockey is a difficult sport to predict so please gamble responsibly. THE PICK: Over 5.5, -115 -- Four of the last six meetings have gone over the posted number, and not in recent memory have I seen a number this low in this series. We need six goals to get over tonight, and when you consider Vancouver's recent offense and Calgary playing in its own barn off a shutout on the road, it's easy to expect fireworks in this one. Vancouver has gone over in three straight while the Flames have landed north of the total in six of nine. Look for these two to get us at least six goals. (Season Record: 13-11-0, Net: +105$, based on 100$ units)
