Alright, folks, buckle up because the Tuesday night NHL action is serving us a whopping nine games! This evening is practically oozing with delicious betting opportunities, so sharpen up those pencils, or rather, let’s tap our screens to some of my top player prop picks.
First in our betting banquet is Alexander “The Shot Machine” DeBrincat, who’s setting the bar pretty high at home. Seriously, this guy practically rains pucks on net when he’s cozying up in his own arena, with a hefty 74% success rate of nailing at least three shots in 17 out of 23 home games. You think that’s good? His away game stats are a bit like when the soda machine runs out of syrup – only a 43% success rate.
Now, DeBrincat’s been knocked off the top line and power play, which honestly could be the best thing to happen to his shooting stats since sliced bread. Free from the shadows of Dylan “The Puck Hog” Larkin, our boy Alex can actually see some more rubber. Plus, he’s facing off against Dallas’ second string instead of their superstar trio – Robertson, Hintz, and Johnston – who’ve been trampling over teams like a trio of rampaging bulls.
The bottom line? Expect DeBrincat to exploit his sweet setup at home and rack up those shots.
Odds: Kicking in at -134, but you can be a daredevil and ride it up to -150.
Next up, we’ve got the man, the myth, the recently unstoppable Cole Caufield. He’s been lighting the lamp like it’s his personal calling, scoring in five straight games. Normally, the dude’s performance is as unpredictable as trying to guess the next word out of a toddler, but he’s been defying the odds and racking up at least four shots against powerhouse teams like the Oilers and Bruins.
Now, Caufield’s landed a primo matchup against the Senators, who quite frankly, are about as intimidating as a kitten in a pillow fort, sitting 29th in the league and bleeding goals. This kid thrives on feasting on the less fortunate teams, and trust me, the Sens qualify. And listen to this: a couple of games ago, on enemy ice, no less, Caufield unleashed nine attempts, landing four shots. Now, on his home turf, against a Swiss cheese defense? It’s showtime.
Odds: This one is a modest -110, but don’t get cold feet; this prop’s still hot up to -135.
Lastly, we’ve got Artemi Panarin – and this pick is a no-brainer, people. This guy’s firing off shots like it’s a reflex. He’s consistently clocking in at approximately four shots per game and doesn’t play favorites – he’ll shoot against anybody.
As luck would have it, Panarin’s facing the Sharks, who might as well hold up a sign that says “Free Shots.” They’re at rock bottom in the league when it comes to stopping pucks. Not to mention, they’re going to be more tired than a bunch of parents after a toddler birthday party, thanks to their exhausting OT game against the Kings the night before.
Oh, and let’s not overlook the fact that Panarin’s Rangers are starting to feel a pinch in their division lead, so they need this win like a fish needs water. Expect Panarin to be leading the shot-chucking extravaganza.
Odds: We’re looking at -118 here, but don’t balk at pushing it to -130.
And that’s all she wrote! Or rather, that’s all Todd Cordell scribbled down in his betting diary. You can stalk his insights on Twitter at @ToddCordell if you’re into that sort of thing.
Now, don’t forget – these little gems are courtesy of theScore, so let’s give credit where credit’s due, eh?