The goaltenders have been the biggest stars in this series, but there still have been plenty of options for bettors to cash in on player props by the skaters. This betting guide will give some analysis on the trends through the first six games of this series to offer some value player props entering Game 7.
Johnny Gaudreau Assists (Over 0.5, -105)
Johnny Gaudreau has arguably been the best skater in this series. He’s struggled to score goals—his only goal in the series is a penalty shot in Game 4—but he’s still delivered for the Flames the entire way. The only game Gaudreau failed to score a point was in Game 2, when Calgary was shut out.
The top line is going to be involved on Sunday, and Gaudreau has had his fingerprints on a huge chunk of Calgary’s offense throughout the series. With five assists, Gaudreau has assisted on almost half of Calgary’s 12 goals in the six games. Game 7s seem like spots for unsung heroes—just ask Max Domi, Nick Paul and Cody Ceci from Saturday’s Game 7s—but trends point to Gaudreau having a good shot at garnering at least one helper.
Mikael Backlund Anytime Goal Scorer (+350)
This is a longer shot, but the situation of a Game 7 stacks up pretty nicely for a player like Mikael Backlund. The second-line center has been a big threat for the Flames, tying teammate Elias Lindholm for most goals in the series at three. Backlund has also led Calgary in shots through the first six games of the series, and his production has erupted lately. Those three goals have come in the last three games.
A four-game goal streak in the postseason is difficult, to say the least. However, Backlund is getting great value here (+350). With Calgary’s top line drawing a huge chunk of the Stars’ attention, and last change at home, Backlund has a favorable climate to get another goal.
Jason Robertson Shots (Under 2.5, +105)
This has been a rough series for Jason Robertson. After a breakout regular season that saw him score 41 goals, he’s managed just one goal and two assists in the six games of this series. His lack of production on the score sheet is one thing, but Robertson’s not even generating any chances. Robertson has managed a total of only 14 shots on goal in the series.
The Flames have been especially good at shutting down his chances when playing in their home rink. Out of those 14 shots, just three have come in the three games in Calgary. Robertson’s line will probably see an uptick in ice time, but he’s already playing around 20 minutes per game. As long as Calgary can keep holding that top line in check, the odds for him to have fewer than three shots (+105) is a great value play.
Odds via FanDuel and BetMGM
The Hockey Writers & THWBets promotes responsible gaming, and provides this content as opinion and analysis with no guarantees or assurances.
For more information about responsible gambling, including help for problem gambling behaviour, please visit these great resource pages:
If you’re in Canada, Rogers Sports & Media has put together a great information and resources page.
If you’re in the United States, MGMResorts has a great page for gambling problem resources.
