There are 10 games on the NHL slate today, which means there are plenty of options for us bettors to consider. 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 props, don’t forget to check out our full game previews for each NHL game on tonight’s slate.
Now let’s get to it.
Auston Matthews over 0.5 goals (-102)
Odds available at FanDuel at time of publishing
After an impressive 4-game goal-scoring streak, Auston Matthews has been held without a goal in 3 straight games. However, that could change tonight as Matthews and the Maple Leafs go up against the Red Wings. With as much talent as Matthews has, it’s only a matter of time until be finds the back of the net again. Tonight could be the perfect opportunity.
Matthews has historically been excellent against the Red Wings in his career. In fact, he has scored 12 goals in 15 career games against Detroit. The Red Wings are also playing this game on the second half of a back-to-back, as they played against the Penguins in Pittsburgh last night. That means they could be dealing with some fatigue. Matthews and the Maple Leafs have not played since Wednesday, so they should be fresh and ready to roll. On the season, Matthews is up to 25 goals in 36 games. Those 25 goals are good for the 5th-most in the entire league. Given his previous success against the Red Wings, consider backing Matthews to light the lamp tonight.
Be sure to check out our full game preview for Detroit Red Wings vs Toronto Maple Leafs
Nico Hischier under 0.5 points (-115)
Odds available at FanDuel at time of publishing
Nico Hischier is a talented 2-way player, but he hasn’t exactly been lighting up the score sheet this season. Through 36 games, he has collected 24 points (8 goals, 16 assists). His 24 points are good for 3rd on his own team, and Hischier and the Devils have a tough matchup tonight against the Hurricanes. Carolina is one of the best defensive teams in the league, as they are allowing a league-low 2.40 goals per game. They also have the league’s best penalty kill (88.7%), and Frederik Andersen has been fantastic in net all season long. Andersen’s 2.05 GAA is the best in the NHL, and his .928 save percentage ranks 2nd behind only Igor Shesterkin. Carolina has a stingy defensive unit that is great at suffocating their opponents. They don’t allow a lot of great chances, the Devils aren’t scoring goals at a rapid rate at this point in time.
Hischier has not recorded a point in 3 straight games, and he has collected just 4 points in this last 8 games. Things will not get any easier against a strong defensive team like the Hurricanes. All in all, finding the score sheet may be a tough assignment for Hischier tonight.
Be sure to check out our full game preview for New Jersey Devils vs Carolina Hurricanes
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