David Hess Picks, Betting Predictions, and Capper Bio

The Under 6.5 looks like a strong play in this matchup, primarily because Philadelphia has been absolutely dreadful offensively, and I don't see the Flyers suddenly breaking out against a quality Colorado team. Philadelphia ranks dead last in the NHL in scoring, averaging a miserable 1.4 goals per game, while generating just 21.2 shots per contest, ranking 31st. The Flyers also have one of the league's worst power plays, converting at just 10.3%, and they've scored more than two goals only once in their first 10 games. Even in Saturday's 3-1 victory over Ottawa, their third goal came into an empty net. Things won't get any easier against a Colorado defense allowing just 26.1 shots per game and killing off 85.0% of opposing power plays. Mackenzie Blackwood is expected to start for the Avalanche, and he's coming off two solid performances in which he stopped 54 of 58 shots, posting a .931 save percentage. Philadelphia is also dealing with significant offensive injuries, with Travis Konecny and Owen Tippett unavailable, leaving an already struggling attack even more shorthanded. Colorado certainly has the firepower to put up a big number, leading the NHL with 4.5 goals per game, but the Flyers have a capable goaltender in Joseph Woll, who has posted a respectable 2.76 goals-against average and .916 save percentage despite his 0-3-2 record. Woll has been considerably better than Philadelphia's overall defensive numbers suggest, and I expect him to keep the Flyers competitive defensively. Colorado's power play has also been relatively ordinary, converting at 20.7%, despite its tremendous offensive production. With Philadelphia struggling to generate scoring chances, Colorado playing solid defensive hockey, and Woll capable of preventing this from becoming a complete blowout, I believe the Avalanche can control this game without needing to light up the scoreboard. Under 6.5 is the play.