Ryan Hodges
Show Bio
This week ends with just 3 games in the NHL before getting back to another double-digit schedule on Saturday. At 7:00 pm ET we have Blues vs Blue Jackets and Penguins vs Panthers. Then at 9:00 pm ET will be Wild vs Oilers. This slate certainly lacks quantity but should be made up for in quality. With the exception of the Panthers, all teams suited up on Friday need 2 points in a big way. We should be treated to good hockey, as these teams will play with some urgency to get in or stay in a playoff hunt.
You can find out our NHL predictions for tonight’s big games, but for now, let’s dive into my best NHL prop bets.
Evan Rodrigues, FLA, Over 0.5 points (-105)
Evan Rodrigues has been a very pleasant surprise for the Panthers this season. In his last 2 seasons Rodrigues has tallied 43 points in 82 games and 39 points in 69 games. Through 25 this season, he already has 20 points. He is playing especially great hockey of late, collecting 3 goals and 7 points in the Panthers’ last 3 games. Rodrigues is producing for a good team in a loaded conference.
Thanks to the strong production, Rodrigues has been rewarded by being added to the team’s top line with Aleksander Barkov and Sam Reinhart. He is also on the Panthers’ second powerplay unit with other great players. Any time Rodrigues steps on the ice, he has tons of support. In what has the makings of a close game, Rodrigues will get ample ice time and opportunity — of which he has really taken advantage in recent weeks.
Read our full Pittsburgh Penguins vs Florida Panthers predictions
Connor McDavid, EDM, Over 0.5 goals (+110)
The Oilers look to have rebounded from their brutal start to the season. They have now won 8 out of their last 11 games, including 5 straight. In their 5-game winning streak, they have outscored opponents 27-8. A big reason for that run? You guessed it. Connor McDavid is back to his rampant production, to which we have grown accustomed. He has 2 goals and 16 points during this 5-game surge.
McDavid obviously is feeling really good right now — as are the Oilers. Edmonton is playing Minnesota tonight, which should result in a high-scoring game. There were 11 goals scored in their previous head-to-head matchup this season. Team strengths, weaknesses and recent trends indicate that something similar is likely in store. Any McDavid prop with plus money looks appetizing given his ceiling. In the case of a high-scoring game, +110 for McDavid to find the back of the net looks even more appealing.
Read our full Minnesota Wild vs Edmonton Oilers predictions
