Yes, the Kings are winning, but...and it's a big but, they're out on the road tonight. That means something, as LA has won just three of its last twelve away in one of the biggest home-road contrasts we can recall during recent years in the NHL. In their only previous trip to Denver, they lost 4-2 back on November 13. The Kings have won their last seven at home, but as noted, road trips have been an adventure. For the Avs, it's 11 wins in 13, and the offense humming, with five goals in each of the current three-game win streak. Recently-added center Brock Nelson is enjoying his new environment, with five points (three goals) across the last three games. Play Avs on Puck Line

I'm about the most homer guy in sports betting, and by that I mean not backing teams I like personally but simply because they are at home. Just think it makes a massive difference. Look at the Kings as a prime example. They are nearly invincible in LA at 26-3-4 but four games under .500 away. Two Kings rotation forwards in Alex Turcotte (23 points) and Tanner Jeannot (13 points) are in doubt for Thursday. Colorado has won 10 straight at home, the longest such streak in the league this season, and beat L.A. 4-2 in Denver in the lone meeting so far this campaign.