Mark Lammey
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We’re still in the honeymoon stage of excitement with the NHL season being in full swing, so we’re back with 3 plays for tonight’s slate. We hit 2 of 3 the last time we gave out an extra play, and there are some great spots again today. With that in mind, don’t forget to also check out our NHL mega parlay for tonight’s action at +988 odds. We’re going to be targeting some of the most consistent skaters in the league, along with one with a new team. Along with our player props, be sure to check out all of our NHL picks for today’s action.
Let’s take a closer look at my 2 favorite player props.
Leon Draisaitl over 0.5 goals (+101)
When it comes to the Edmonton Oilers, it’s generally Connor McDavid that garnishes most of the attention. It’s certainly warranted, as he once again finished last season with the most points in the NHL. However, Leon Draisaitl should not be overlooked. His 110 points were the 3rd-most in the league, and playing alongside McDavid helps produce even more scoring chances.
Both of them should have great nights after a couple of days off and being at home to welcome in the Sabres. Buffalo allowed the 8th-most goals per game last season, and is still relying on 41-year-old goaltender Craig Anderson. Draisaitl was a part of the Sabres’ poor goaltending, despite playing in just 2 games against them last season. He recorded a goal in their first meeting and 2 in the following one. There should also be no concern about Draisaitl taking his shots, as he recorded 12 across those 2 games last year. His 55 goals last season were the 2nd-most in the league, so there’s no reason to doubt him with such a great matchup.
Be sure to check out our Buffalo Sabres vs Edmonton Oilers predictions
Johnny Gaudreau over 2.5 shots on goal (-150)
For all of the offseason additions made this summer, arguably none was bigger than the Columbus Blue Jackets signing former Flame Johnny Gaudreau. It was not a trade either; he chose to join the Jackets as it’s closer to his hometown. He was an absolute stud last season, finishing just behind McDavid with 115 points. With that in mind, we also like him to record 2 points tonight. We’re going to play it just a bit safer with his shots on goal prop, but it’s for good reason.
Firstly, this is the second night of a road back-to-back for the Canucks. They used starting goaltender Thatcher Demko last night in Washington, and their skaters are going to be fatigued overall. It’s still early in the season, so it’s difficult for anyone to be in true midseason game shape. Regardless, Gaudreau had no problem with this prop, as he had at least 4 shots in 3 of 4 meetings against Vancouver last season. Gaudreau may not be wearing Flames red anymore, but he should still be on fire tonight.
Be sure to check out our Vancouver Canucks vs Columbus Blue Jackets predictions
Roman Josi over 0.5 assists (+120)
When it comes to consistent skaters, there are few that are more so than the Predators’ Roman Josi. He’s a former Norris Trophy winner for the NHL’s best defenseman and he has shown no signs of slowing down. His 96 points last season were the most among defensemen and his 73 assists were the 5th-most overall. Josi has just 1 so far this year, but there should be confidence in him starting to record them more consistently.
The Predators were over in Prague, Czech Republic for the NHL’s world tour season-opening weekend, but will now be back in Nashville for this game. They’re also welcoming in a Kings team who has not been nearly as stout defensively as they were last season. They’ve allowed at least 4 goals in all 3 of their games so far this season, including a game against the expansion Seattle Kraken. Even if LA does step up, Josi feasted on them last season. He had at least an assist in all 3 games against them and 4 overall. With the Preds re-signing goalscorer Filip Forsberg in the offseason, Josi has a perfect skater alongside him to hit his assist prop.
Be sure to check out our Los Angeles Kings vs Nashville Predators predictions
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