Ryan Hodges
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There are just 4 games in the NHL on Friday, but they should really bring the heat. All 8 teams suited up are either in a playoff spot or competing for one. Every team is above .500 and has a need for the 2 points up for grabs in each matchup. Although small in quantity, this slate has great quality and boasts plenty of star power. This will be a great end to a busy week in the NHL.
You can find out our 2 best NHL player prop bets below, but make sure you also read our NHL predictions for today’s games.
Ivan Barbashev, VGS, Over 0.5 points (+120)
The Golden Knights have endured a roller-coaster of a season thus far. They are playing well right now but have struggled with consistency a little bit. Despite their solid current 6-2-1 run, look for them to come out with some fire to collect 2 points against a struggling team and continue trending upward. In a contest that could be physical with little margin for error, Ivan Barbashev should stand out.
There are not many players as effective as Barbashev. He is a great mix of talented and physical, which is not a common combination among top 6 NHL forwards. Barbashev enters this game with 3 goals and 7 points in his last 4. He plays important minutes on the second line and second powerplay. The Rangers are struggling lately and if the Golden Knights can capitalize, then Barbashev has a good chance to stay hot and continue producing at a solid +120 value.
Read our full Vegas Golden Knights vs New York Rangers predictions
Nathan MacKinnon, COL, Over 0.5 goals (-110)
Nathan MacKinnon has tallied at least a point in every home game this season and has points in 31 out of his last 32 games played. Most recently MacKinnon delivered 4 goals and 2 assists against the Capitals on Wednesday, giving him 7 goals and 10 points in his last 3 games. It almost does not matter who the opponent is or what the odds are — MacKinnon to score is great value right now.
In addition to MacKinnon being on a roll lately, the Avalanche get a good matchup at a good time. The Kings have just 2 wins in their last 14 games, 1 win in their last 6 on the road and 3 wins in their last 14 against the Avalanche. Colorado, meanwhile, has 10 wins in its last 13 games and 10 wins in its last 11 played at home. The Avalanche score the most goals per game in the NHL and their offense is on a tear in January. This one looks good for MacKinnon and the Avalanche to remain on a roll.
