NHL Player Props Goals and Assists Strategy Guide

Beyond the Final Score: A Bettor's Guide to NHL Player Props for Goals and Assists

While traditional moneyline and totals bets are the bread and butter of NHL betting, the world of player props offers a whole new level of excitement and opportunity. By focusing on the individual performance of players, you can find an edge and cash in on your knowledge of the game. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of NHL player props for goals and assists, equipping you with the strategies and insights needed to make profitable wagers.

What are NHL Player Props?

Player props are bets on a specific player's statistical performance in a game. For goals and assists, the most common player props are:

• Anytime Goal Scorer: A bet on a player to score a goal at any point during the game.
• First Goal Scorer: A bet on a player to score the first goal of the game.
• Last Goal Scorer: A bet on a player to score the last goal of the game.
• To Score 2+ Goals: A bet on a player to score two or more goals in the game.
• To Record an Assist: A bet on a player to record an assist at any point during the game.
• To Record a Point: A bet on a player to record a goal or an assist.
• Total Points (Over/Under): A bet on whether a player's total points (goals + assists) will be over or under a specific number set by the sportsbook.

Key Factors to Analyze

To be a successful player prop bettor, you need to go beyond just looking at a player's season stats. Here are some of the key factors to analyze:

Player's Role and Ice Time

A player's role on the team and their average ice time are crucial factors. A player on the top line and first power-play unit will have more opportunities to score than a player on the fourth line.

Recent Performance

A player's recent performance is a good indicator of their current form. Look at their stats over the last five to ten games to see if they are on a hot streak or in a slump.

Matchup

The matchup is a critical factor. A high-scoring forward facing a team with a weak defense and a struggling goalie is a great candidate for an over bet. Conversely, a player facing a top defensive team with an elite goalie is a good candidate for an under bet.

Power Play Opportunities

The power play is a great source of goals and assists. A player who gets a lot of time on the power play is more likely to record a point than a player who does not.

Linemates

The quality of a player's linemates can have a major impact on their production. A player who is playing with two other skilled players is more likely to score than a player who is playing with two grinders.

Betting Strategies

Here are a few strategies for betting on NHL player props for goals and assists:

• Target High-Volume Shooters: Players who take a lot of shots are more likely to score goals. Look for players who consistently average a high number of shots on goal per game.
• Look for Favorable Matchups: As mentioned above, the matchup is key. Look for opportunities to bet on players who are facing weak defensive teams.
• Fade Players in Slumps: A player who is in a slump is a good candidate to bet against. Look for players who have gone several games without a point.
• Consider the Goalie Matchup: The goalie matchup is a major factor. A player facing a hot goalie is less likely to score than a player facing a struggling goalie.
• Shop for the Best Lines: Not all sportsbooks offer the same odds on player props. By shopping around at different sportsbooks, you can often find a more favorable line.

Conclusion

NHL player props for goals and assists are a fun and exciting way to wager on hockey. By doing your research, analyzing the key factors, and employing the strategies outlined in this guide, you can increase your chances of making profitable player prop bets. Remember to always bet responsibly and within your means.