Betting on NHL players can be a thrilling experience, but success comes down to strategy and understanding the numbers. Statistics are the backbone of any betting decision, and knowing which ones are the most reliable can give you a significant edge. While many stats exist, only a few are truly game-changing when analyzing player performance. Here are the six best statistics to focus on when betting on NHL players.
Goals per Game (GPG)
Goals per Game (GPG) is one of the most direct indicators of a player’s scoring ability. In a sport where goals are often hard to come by, knowing how frequently a player finds the back of the net is crucial. While some players may have high shot volumes, those who consistently convert those opportunities into goals are the ones to watch. This stat helps bettors understand a player’s true offensive potential, which can be key in prop bets involving goal totals.
Points per Game (PPG)
Points per Game (PPG) takes things a step further by incorporating both goals and assists, offering a broader view of a player’s offensive impact. While goals are critical, assists often reflect a player’s ability to make plays and contribute to their team’s success in different ways. Players with high PPG are generally involved in a majority of their team’s scoring opportunities, making this stat vital when considering NHL prop bets related to points or overall team performance.
Shots on Goal (SOG)
While goals and points are great indicators of offensive output, shots on goal (SOG) provide insight into a player’s consistency and volume. Even the best players don’t score on every shot, but those who consistently generate chances are more likely to have future success. High SOG numbers suggest that a player is consistently putting themselves in scoring positions, which could mean they are due for a breakout game, making this stat invaluable for predicting player performance.
Save Percentage (SV%) for Goalies
For those betting on goalies, Save Percentage (SV%) is a must-know stat. It measures the number of shots a goalie saves compared to the total shots they face, offering a direct view of their performance. Goalies with higher SV% tend to be more reliable, especially in high-pressure games.
When looking at odds by FanDuel, you’ll often see that teams with top-performing goalies, particularly those with strong save percentages, are given more favorable lines. This statistic is essential when betting on team performance or individual goalie props, as a strong goalie can be the difference between winning and losing a bet.
Power Play Points (PPP)
Special teams play a critical role in the NHL, and a player’s effectiveness on the power play can be a game-changer. Power Play Points (PPP) measure a player’s contributions during power play situations, where teams are more likely to score.
Bettors should pay close attention to this stat because players with high PPP are often more dangerous when their team has the man advantage. This stat is particularly useful when betting on players known for excelling in these situations, as it can significantly impact a game’s outcome.
Time on Ice (TOI)
Time on Ice (TOI) may not seem like a flashy statistic, but it’s one of the most telling indicators of a player’s importance to their team. Players with high TOI are trusted by their coaches in critical situations and are more likely to have opportunities to impact the game.
Whether on the power play, penalty kill, or in regular shifts, more ice time translates into more chances to rack up points. Bettors can use TOI to gauge a player’s likelihood of influencing the outcome of a game, making it a key stat for any wager.
Conclusion
Betting on NHL players requires more than just surface-level knowledge. By focusing on statistics like Goals per Game, Points per Game, Shots on Goal, Power Play Points, Time on Ice, and Save Percentage, you can make smarter, data-driven betting decisions. These stats provide a clear picture of player performance and potential, helping you place more informed wagers.
