The Stanley Cup Playoffs are underway, and Saturday features a compelling Game 1 matchup between the Colorado Avalanche and the Dallas Stars. These Central Division rivals have a history, with the Avalanche winning two of three regular-season games, one in overtime. The Stars concluded the season with 106 points, ranking third in the Western Conference, closely followed by the Avalanche with 102 points. This series is loaded with talent, particularly the Avalanche, boasting Nathan MacKinnon, who finished second in league scoring and tied for the most assists this season.
Despite starting on the road for Game 1, the Avalanche are favored to win. Betting odds indicate Colorado as the money line favorites at -152, while the Stars are home underdogs at +127. The Avalanche are also favored by 1.5 goals on the puck line, and the game`s over/under is set at 6.5 goals.
Statistical models are used to predict game outcomes and player performances. These models generate numerous simulations to identify top player prop bet opportunities. These insights can be valuable for creating parlays and same-game parlays on various betting platforms.
Here are some highly-rated player prop picks for Saturday`s Avalanche-Stars game, along with the potential payout for a three-leg same-game parlay:
Top Prop Bets for Avalanche-Stars Game (+357 Payout)
- Nathan MacKinnon Over 3.5 Shots on Goal (-130): 5-Star Rating
- Brock Nelson Over 1.5 Shots on Goal (-146): 5-Star Rating
- Martin Necas Over 1.5 Shots on Goal (-188): 5-Star Rating
Nathan MacKinnon`s exceptional season includes 116 points and 84 assists. He is known for his offensive aggression, leading the league with 320 shots. The model projects MacKinnon to exceed 3.5 shots on goal in this game, rating it as a 5-star pick. Historically, MacKinnon has consistently surpassed this prop against strong defensive teams with winning records.
Another recommended prop bet involves Brock Nelson to exceed his shots on goal total. Nelson has a strong track record of hitting the over on this prop in road games against winning teams and is projected to get 2.5 shots on goal in this matchup.
Martin Necas is also favored to surpass his shots on goal prop. The model projects Necas to record 3.0 shots on goal on Saturday, aligning with his recent average in road games.
