Mark Lammey
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It’s finally Saturday, which means a massive 15-game NHL slate. I’m personally 6-1 on props this week, and we’re 7-2 overall. Let’s keep things rolling with an abundance of options on the table. So many games can be overwhelming to break down, but that’s what we’re here for. It’s a time-consuming process, but we’ve analyzed the ins and outs of each matchup. There are plenty of superstar names on the ice, but you may be surprised where we’ve found some great value.
Along with our player props, be sure to check out all of our NHL picks for today’s action.
Patrice Bergeron over 3.5 shots on goal (+105)
Our first play is the least surprising one, as the Boston Bruins are an absolute wagon right now. They have the best record in the NHL at 15-2-0, and they’re 10-0-0 at home. Tonight’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks is at TD Garden, which already bodes well for Patrice Bergeron and company. He’s not much of a surprise as he’s part of what’s been nicknamed The Perfection Line. Alongside David Pastrnak and Brad Marchand, the trio has been together since 2014. While Marchand is labeled as the pest among the 3, it’s Pastrnak and Bergeron that are the primary shot-takers.
Pastrnak’s prop is always a full shot higher, and deservedly so. However, Bergeron has the ability to hit 5 shots himself, so we’ll take the extra insurance with this play. In fact, that’s exactly what he’s done against Chicago in recent meetings. In 2 games against the Blackhawks last season, Bergeron recorded shot totals of 7 and 6. That trend should continue given how the ‘Hawks have been defensively so far this season. They’ve allowed the 6th-most shots per game on the road, and the 5th-most overall. They’re still down defenseman Seth Jones, which lessens their ability to block shots. We also love Bergeron to record a point tonight, but the shot-taking consistency is where we’re going for the official play.
Be sure to check out our Chicago Blackhawks vs Boston Bruins prediction
Lucas Raymond over 0.5 points (-115)
Our second play is where there may be a bit more of a surprise. The Detroit Red Wings featured two of the league’s best rookies last season. While defenseman Moritz Seider took home the Calder Trophy, Raymond was not far behind. He was a stud, and one of his standout performances was against Detroit’s opponent tonight. They’ll be facing the Columbus Blue Jackets, who tied for the worst team in the Eastern Conference. They too are down a top defenseman in Zach Werenski, which only helps Raymond’s outlook. Even when he was on the ice, the Wings’ left winger torched the Jackets.
He recorded 2 points in each of the first 2 games against them last season, and another in the third matchup. That trend should continue with Columbus’ awful goaltending this season. They’ve allowed the 2nd-most goals per game at home, and the most goals per game overall. That’s a recipe for the entire Detroit roster to shine, but that’s also why other skaters’ props are so expensive. However, instead of paying north of -200 for a guy like Dylan Larkin, we can get Raymond at a much better price. The 2nd-year skater was on the same line as Larkin last game, who leads the team in points. Therefore, trust Raymond’s success against the Jackets to continue tonight.
Be sure to check out our Detroit Red Wings vs Columbus Blue Jackets prediction
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