Here we are at the turning point of the week, and I've got a few player props that stand out to me in tonight's modest 4-game NHL slate. 


While I don't necessarily share the wariness that some have (understandably) developed towards bread-and-butter shot on goal props, it is always a good idea to diversify and keep an eye out for angles where we can take advantage of the books to some degree. Tonight, I'm going to highlight two non-SOG picks as well as two shot props for folks to consider. 


Kunin OVER 1.5 Hits

One of the smartest hockey bettors I know turned me on to this fact earlier in the week - the Toronto Maples are easily allowing the most hits per game of any NHL team so far this season. So, when they played the Blackhawks this week it was just a matter of finding the guy(s) doing the hitting (in this instance Chiarot) and profiting. Applying the same logic tonight as Toronto faces off with the Sharks, we have the curious case of Luke Kunin. The former Predator has 2+ hits in 4 of his last 5 games and 2 of his last 3 road games. Versus the Maple Leafs throughout his career, he has hit in 5 of 7 matchups, including earlier this season. 


Anderson OVER 27.5 Saves

Out on the road, the Sabres have been averaging 33.56 shots allowed per game so far this season. Detroit on home ice has averaged just over 32 shots on goal per game thus far. I've been seeing a lot of folks talking about the merits of Kubalik, Larkin, Perron today - thinking they are in a good position to get shots off, I agree. Anderson has 28+ saves in each of his last 2 games and 3 of his last 4 on the road. While there is always the risk of getting pulled, particularly against a Sabres team near the top of the league in scoring, Anderson has only given up 4+ goals in a handful of games this season, and I don't think he is likely to get pulled for anything less than that. Detroit is off to a strong start this season and I think they'll be pushing for another W tonight against a weak Buffalo squad.


Trouba OVER 2.5 Shots on Goal

With 3+ SOG in 5 of his last 6 games and 6 of 8 on the road, Trouba has been a steady presence in New York's offensive efforts. Tonight, the Rangers face off with an Ottawa squad that Trouba has hit against in 8 of his last 10 meetings, including 2 of 3 last season. On a small losing streak, the Boys in Blue will be looking to get right tonight vs one of the worst teams in the league. 


Patrick Kane OVER 3 Shots on Goal

I rarely bet Blackhawks' players, but Kane is clearly the best they have to offer. He has 3+ shots in 5 of his last 6 games and each of his last 4 home games. He is averaging 6+ attempts on home ice and has hit in 5 of his last 6 games vs Edmonton, including each of their last 4 meetings. With the Oilers giving up 34 shots on goal per game out on the road, this is a prime opportunity for Kane to get his shots off and for the Blackhawks to score a W in front of the home crowd.  

  


That's all I've got for today's slate - plenty of other good looks out there, these are just the plays I like best. Whatever you pick, I hope it hits for you tonight!

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