NHL Best Bets & DFS Cheat Sheet, 1/16: Picks, Predictions & Player Props
Published: Jan 16, 2026
Welcome to the Fantasy Alarm NHL Playbook. This is your one-stop shop for everything DFS related for tonight’s 5-game slate. There are a few select games to choose from and many ways to make a winning lineup! We have some very good matchups to cover, so let’s get into the action.
For the NHL Bets, there are plenty of angles to attack on the slate, and some spots might surprise you! Check out the wagers, and if you like the rationale, then tail them. You can get every expect pick, including mine, right here.
Season Record: 20-28
Season Bankroll: -19.71 Units
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NHL Picks, Predictions & Best Bets Today, 1/16
Tampa Bay Lightning vs St. Louis Blues Prediction
The Tampa Bay Lightning have won 11 consecutive games and are aiming to maintain their momentum against the St. Louis Blues. Despite facing some key injuries, their offense has been impressive. They are one of the highest-scoring teams in the league, averaging 3.51 goals per game while allowing only 2.56 goals against. Although their winning streak will eventually come to an end, it won't be tonight. Since the money line is favorable, we’ll take Tampa Bay to win in regulation.
- Tampa Bay Lightning 60-MIN Money Line (-125 on DraftKings Sportsbook)
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Today's NHL DFS Cheat Sheet & Stacks
Goalie of the Day: MacKenzie Blackwood - COL
MacKenzie Blackwood has been activated from injured reserve and is confirmed to start tonight. The veteran goaltender has been on an exceptional run this season, boasting a 13-1-1 record with a 2.07 goals against average (GAA) and a .923 save percentage (SV%). His numbers become even more impressive on home ice, where he has a perfect 7-0-0 record with a 1.55 GAA and a .930 SV%. While we can discuss how well Colorado has performed throughout the season, the goaltenders are certainly playing their part. Blackwood is the top goaltending option for cash games.
Honourable Mention: Darcy Kuemper - LAK
Darcy Kuemper has experienced four consecutive losses in his recent starts, but facing the Anaheim Ducks could be a turning point for him. Anaheim recently ended their losing streak with a 3-1 victory over Dallas; however, they still struggle with giving up too many scoring chances and goals, particularly when playing away. While the Kings' offense has been lackluster, their defense has remained strong, largely due to Kuemper’s contributions. Although he may face a high volume of shots and could allow a few goals, he still represents a solid value pick overall.
Player of the Day: Nathan MacKinnon - COL
It feels almost impossible to fade Nathan MacKinnon. Even at his price of $10,500, he seems like a bargain considering how dominant he has been on home ice. He is averaging 22.7 fantasy points per game on DraftKings, with 18 goals and a total of 44 points. Although the power play isn't top-tier, he is shooting at 17%. I’d love to recommend passing on him, but in cash games, you simply have to ride the momentum with MacKinnon.
Honourable Mention: Nikita Kucherov - TBL
If you’re considering a different option, keep an eye on Nikita Kucherov. The Russian winger has an impressive 67 points this season, with 42 of those points coming from road games. With Brayden Point currently on injured reserve, Kucherov will have to take on a larger role, and he’s more than capable of doing so. The Blues are not a particularly strong team, and Joel Hofer remains a below-average goalie.
Value Play of the Day: Brandt Clarke - LAK
You may not think of a $5,000 player on DraftKings (DK) as a bargain, but in the case of Brandt Clarke, it definitely is. The young player has moved up to the top power play unit, and his point production is increasing. He has scored four points in the last three games and consistently blocks over two shots per game. He has surpassed 15 fantasy points in those three games and could be set for another strong performance against a struggling Ducks team. If you're looking to get exposure to the Kings without overspending, this is a great option.
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