Friday night’s slate of NHL action brings us 5 games. That means we have some options when it comes to player props. I have 2 props in mind for tonight’s action, and I don’t want to alarm you, but I am on a nice little 10-2 run in my last 12. Let’s keep that going tonight with a pair of plus-money props. Along with these plays, don’t forget to check out our full game previews for all 5 matchups tonight. You can also follow Pickswise and myself on Twitter for plenty of betting content covering all sports.
Leon Draisaitl over 0.5 goals (+110)
Line available at FanDuel at time of publishing
Leon Draisaitl has not scored a goal in his last 2 games. For any other player, that may not be very noteworthy. But for Draisaitl, it is a rarity. The Edmonton superstar has 20 goals in 21 games this season, and he has yet to be held goalless in 3 consecutive games. Given Draisaitl’s elite scoring ability, that trend alone gives us some confidence that he will get back on track in tonight’s game. That confidence is boosted even more when you look at Edmonton’s opponent, the Seattle Kraken. The Kraken are giving up a ton of goals so far this season. In fact, only 3 teams are allowing more goals per game (3.48). When the Oilers faced the Kraken back on November 1, Draisaitl potted 2 goals and tallied 4 points on the night. This seems like an ideal matchup for Draisaitl to light the lamp once again.
Be sure to check out our full game preview for Edmonton Oilers vs Seattle Kraken
Reilly Smith over 2.5 shots (+100)
Line available at FanDuel at time of publishing
With all of the injuries that the Vegas Golden Knights have dealt with early on this season, Reilly Smith is one player who has stepped up in a time of need. The Miami University product has tallied 16 points (10 goals, 6 assists) in 22 games, and he has found a groove in recent weeks. Over his last 10 games, Smith has found the back of the net 8 times. Part of his success is due to an aggressive mindset when the puck is on his stick. Smith leads the Golden Knights in shots on goal (71), and is averaging 3.23 shots per game. In addition, he has put at least 3 shots on goal in 6 of his last 10 games.
Smith’s aggressive mindset should continue tonight, as the Golden Knights face one of the worst defensive teams in the league. Only 3 teams are allowing more goals per game than the Coyotes (3.48), and only 5 teams are allowing more shots per game (33.7). Look for Smith to create pressure early and often tonight and take the over on his shot total.
Be sure to check out our full game preview for Vegas Golden Knights vs Arizona Coyotes
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