The NHL schedule has been even more back-and-forth than usual during this first month of the season. After just 3 games last night, we have 12 tonight, and we'll have just 2 tomorrow night. The smaller slates means fewer spots to target, and we're never going to force plays. Since we had just 1 player prop last night, it's only fair that we're back with 3 plays tonight. Along with our player props, be sure to check out all of our NHL picks for today's action.
Let's take a closer look at my 2 favorite player props.
Steven Stamkos over 3.5 shots on goal (-105)
We're expecting a big night from the Tampa Bay Lightning overall, and pinpointing just 1 of their skaters is always difficult. Victor Hedman has come through with his assist prop for us, and Nikita Kucherov looks set for a multi-point night. While considering those plays, our favorite is for Steven Stamkos to record at least 4 shots on goal. Most shots on goal props are set at 2.5, but his is set higher for good reason. Stamkos began this season with at least 4 shots on goal in each of the Lightning's first 5 games, including a 7-shot performance against the Columbus Blue Jackets. The Ottawa Senators aren't quite as bad as the Jackets, but they are allowing the 7th-most shots per game. They allowed a ridiculous 57 shots the last time they were on the ice against the Florida Panthers. They'll be on the road again for this matchup, as they'll be traveling across the state to take on the Lightning. Stamkos has hit this prop in 7 of Tampa's 9 games, and this plus-money price is great value given his matchup tonight.