Thursday Player Props: Shots From The Blue Line From Ekblad And Hamilton; Saros’s Stellar Saves
Will McLean
2023-02-16
It is Thursday once again, so let's find some winning NHL props. There are eight NHL games on the docket tonight, which will give us more than enough options to find some winning props. I've taken my time to carefully look over every matchup tonight, and I think I've found a few props that can win us some money. The research is done, the picks are in, and now it's time to watch some hockey!
Below, I highlight three player props that stood out to me for tonight's games. My record this season stands at (23 – 10) after going (2 – 1) last Thursday, hopefully, we can sweep the board tonight!
Aaron Ekblad – Over 2.5 Shots (-125)
A lot of the time when I am picking a player shot prop the team he is playing against matters, but not this time. This pick is all about Aaron Ekblad and how he has been playing recently. This season Ekblad is averaging 3.0 shots per game and 5.24 shot attempts. But over his last 10 games, he is averaging 4.1 shots per game and 6.4 shot attempts, that's quite a big jump up from his season averages. His recent increase in shots has led to him recording three or more shots in nine straight games, and I am banking on him to continue that streak against a banged-up Washington Capitals team. With how desperate the Florida Panthers are for wins to keep their playoff hopes alive, I expect Ekblad to play with some desperation and push for offense every chance he gets.
Dougie Hamilton – Over 3.5 Shots (+105)
Considering how much Dougie Hamilton loves to shoot the puck, the fact that you can find this bet at plus money is too tempting for me to pass on. Over his last 10 games, Hamilton has been averaging 4.2 shots per game, over half a shot more than his season average of 3.62. He is also attempting 7.7 shot attempts per game over his last 10, meaning he doesn't shy away from shooting the puck when given the chance. Because of his strong play as of late, he has managed to record four or more shots in nine of his last 12 games, and six of eight road games. His solid play on the road is a confidence booster considering the New Jersey Devils are on the road versus the St. Louis Blues tonight. Hamilton has already played the Blues once this season, and in that game, he recorded five shots. The Blues also give up the 12th most shots to opposing defensemen. With how Hamilton has performed lately, and how much the Blues have been struggling, I expect Hamilton to have another good performance tonight.
Juuse Saros – Over 29.5 Saves (-116)
Juuse Saros will probably have to have a big game if he, and the Nashville Predators, hope to get the win tonight when hosting the Boston Bruins. Over his last 12 games, Saros is averaging 33.25 saves per game and 35.92 shots against per game, those numbers would be more than enough to get us the win tonight. Also, Saros has recorded 30 or more saves in four of his last five home games. On the other hand, the Bruins are averaging 33.4 shots per game this season, that's the fifth most in the NHL. The Bruins have recorded at least 37 shots in three of their last five road games, hopefully, the Bruins can have another road game like that tonight. With Saros playing like a Vezina candidate again, the Bruins strong play on the road, and the Predators fighting for a playoff spot, look for Saros to have a big game tonight.