The under is a good bet for Kings vs. Islanders

Although the Kings have the fewest points in the NHL with 43 heading into tonight’s road game against the New York Islanders, they are 5-3 over their last eight games, which includes a tough 3-2 overtime loss at Philadelphia on Tuesday.

But the most encouraging Kings’ trend for bettors has been their defensive play, which has sparked the under to victories in their last three games.

That sets up a stingy matchup tonight against goalie Rick DiPietro and the Islanders, who lead the league with 31 under wins this season.

The under has trends working for both teams.

New York is coming off a 5-2 home loss to Ottawa on Tuesday and the under is 5-0 in the Islanders’ last five games after they’ve given up three or more goals at the Nassau Coliseum.

The under is also 4-0 in the Kings’ last four road games against the Islanders and 12-5 in their last 17 games away from Staples Center.

The over/under for tonight’s game is 5.5 combined goals.

While the Kings are playing for respect at this stage of the season, the Ducks are trying to get their game together in attempt to repeat as Stanley Cup champions.

According to oddsmakers, the Ducks’ chances definitely improved when Teemu Selanne ended his mini-retirement and rejoined the team.

In the latest odds released for this year’s Stanley Cup at LasVegasInsider.com, the Ducks are listed at 11-2, behind Detroit (4-1) and Ottawa (5-1). At Bodoglife.com, the Ducks are listed at 6-1, behind the Red Wings (3-1) and Senators (9-2).

Pro Basketball

With the NBA season now past the halfway point, odds have been updated this week for the 2008 Finals and the Boston Celtics -- who began the off-season listed at 75-1 -- have moved into a favorite role with Dallas, Phoenix and San Antonio, according to LasVegasInsider.com.

The Celtics, Mavericks, Suns and Spurs are listed at 3-1. The Lakers are 15-1.

Pro Football

The over/under for Sunday’s Super Bowl is 53 1/2 points and, according to Wagerline.com’s betting chart, the over has been getting the majority of picks at 58.14% (1,364-982).

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