This week in the hockey world starts off with 5 games on Monday night’s slate. In this article we are taking a look at 2 specific matchups and rolling with a pair of player props that we think have a solid chance of hitting. Along with these plays, don’t forget to check out our full game previews for each game on tonight’s schedule.
Now let’s get to it.
Auston Matthews over 0.5 goals (-105)
Line available at FanDuel at time of publishing
After scoring goals in 4 consecutive games, Auston Matthews has been held without a goal in 4 straight games. However, that hasn’t stopped Matthews from being involved offensively. In those 4 games, he has 5 assists. It is only a matter of time before Matthews lights the lamp again, and tonight could be the perfect opportunity. Matthews and the Maple Leafs face the Devils tonight, and they are giving up 3.40 goals per game, which is the 7th-most in the league. Historically, Matthews has been spectacular against the Devils in his career. In 9 career games against New Jersey he has 8 goals.
For the season Matthews is 5th in the league in goals with 25, despite having played at least 3 fewer games than everyone in front of him on that list. Long story short: he is scoring goals at a rapid rate despite the recent minor slump. The Devils are riding a 4-game losing streak and they have allowed 3 goals or more in 3 of those 4 games. Toronto’s offense may be able to light the lamp early and often, and Matthews figures to be involved.
Be sure to check out our full game preview for New Jersey Devils vs Toronto Maple Leafs.
Trevor Zegras over 2.5 shots (-122)
Line available at FanDuel at time of publishing
There will be some great young talent on display tonight in the Ducks vs Red Wings game. Trevor Zegras, Lucas Raymond, and Mortiz Seider headline what should be a fantastic matchup to watch unfold. The prop that we are rolling with in this one is for Zegras to record over 2.5 shots. Zegras has burst onto the scene this season, and he is not afraid to be aggressive. On the season, he has put 97 shots on goal in 41 games, good for an average of 2.37 shots per game. He has been especially aggressive lately, registering 9 shots on goal over his last 2 games. Look for Zegras to stay aggressive tonight.
The Red Wings are coming off a game in which they allowed 7 goals on 37 shots to the Maple Leafs. Toronto fell behind, but when they put their foot on the gas they scored 5 goals in the 3rd period alone. Anaheim should come out firing. Only 7 teams are allowing more shots per game than the Red Wings this season (33.1), and with the potential top 3 candidates for the Calder Trophy on the ice in this one, Zegras may be looking to put on a show. I think that leads to him putting pucks on net early and often.
Be sure to check out our full game preview for Anaheim Ducks vs Detroit Red Wings.
Pickswise is the home of free NHL Picks and NHL Predictions. Check back for our daily NHL Best Bets, including our favorite NHL Prop Bets.
