If super bowl betting is raging onward, we know the NHL All-Star break is over, and that means the stretch run has officially begun. It’s been an exciting NHL season, with some powerhouse teams exploding to the top of the standings and some horrible teams sinking deep to the bottom. NHL betting fans have to wonder, though — who’s primed for a fall? And who will bounce back? Those who bet on hockey should keep reading…

POST-BREAK RISERS

1. Pittsburgh Penguins – the worst is over. Don’t get overexcited and expect them to return to NHL betting glory, but they should crawl into a low playoff spot.

2. Vancouver Canucks - they survived without Luongo. Now he’s back and Sundin should find his legs eventually. Hard to imagine them not improving.

3. Ottawa Senators - like the Leafs of two years ago, they’re in denial. Their pride alone should squeeze out a handful of wins…but they won’t make the playoffs.

FALLERS

1. Phoenix Coyotes — the future looks bright, but they’re slightly ahead of schedule. I don’t see them making the playoffs with the current goaltending breakdown.

2. Carolina Hurricanes – technically, the fall has already started. Currently eighth place, but they’ve allowed 21 more goals than they’ve scored. Stay away, NHL betting fans.

3. Chicago Blackhawks - don’t get me wrong — they’re a great team and could win a playoff series. But they’re still young. They may tire a bit down the stretch and lose home-ice advantage.