NHL Best Bets & DFS Cheat Sheet, 1/21: Picks, Predictions & Player Props
Published: Jan 21, 2026
Welcome to the Fantasy Alarm NHL Playbook. This is your one-stop shop for everything DFS related for tonight’s 6-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: 21-29
Season Bankroll: -9.96 Units
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NHL Picks, Predictions & Best Bets Today, 1/21
Washington Capitals vs Vancouver Canucks Prediction
The Washington Capitals have lost three consecutive games and are dropping in the standings. However, their situation pales in comparison to that of the Vancouver Canucks, who have lost 11 in a row and are currently at the bottom of the league. The Canucks are in the midst of a rebuild, indicating that tougher days are ahead. They have recorded only 4 home wins (4-14-3) and rank among the league's lowest-scoring teams. This presents a solid opportunity for the Capitals to gain an advantage against a weaker opponent.
- Washington Capitals 60-MIN Money Line (-105 on DraftKings Sportsbook)
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Today's NHL DFS Cheat Sheet & Stacks
Goalie of the Day: Ilya Sorokin - NYI
If it isn't broken, don't fix it, right? Ilya Sorokin performed well on Monday against the Canucks, so we're expecting a similar outcome tonight against Seattle. The Kraken don't take many shots, which could be a concern, but, just like on Monday, we're focused on securing the win. The Islanders are a strong defensive team, and Sorokin has impressive statistics. It's surprising that we can get him for $7,900 on DraftKings.
Honourable Mention: Scott Wedgewood - COL
Scott Wedgewood is set to face the Anaheim Ducks at Ball Arena. In their previous matchup, Wedgewood had a strong performance, stopping 35 out of 36 shots. The Ducks are currently dealing with several key injuries among their forwards. Although they have been improving recently, they still struggle to keep the puck out of their own net. Colorado recently suffered its first home loss, but that is unlikely to become a regular occurrence. Wedgewood is the most expensive goalie on the slate, but he still has the potential to deliver value.
Player of the Day: Nathan MacKinnon - COL
When Nathan MacKinnon is on the slate, he deserves your attention. He has accumulated seven points in the last three games and remains an unstoppable force. He is logging significant ice time, which helps maintain his high performance level. Even at a price of $10,500 on DraftKings, he can still provide great value. The Ducks will likely struggle to contain him, so don't hesitate to invest in an elite talent like MacKinnon.
Honourable Mention: Auston Matthews - TOR
Auston Matthews has a passion for scoring goals, and he tends to perform even better on home ice. He scored on Monday against Minnesota, extending his goal streak to three games. While Detroit is a solid road team that defends well, Matthews is still likely to find opportunities to score. Although his shot volume can be a bit inconsistent, the potential for him to succeed remains high.
Value Play of the Day: Ethen Frank - WSH
The Capitals have an excellent matchup and a few players available at low cost that we can target. The primary one to consider is Ethen Frank, who finished the last game playing on a line with Alex Ovechkin. He is also receiving ice time on the top power play unit. When you skate alongside the greatest goal scorer in NHL history, good things often follow. Frank has shown flashes of being able to shoot the puck effectively, but his performance can be inconsistent. He's coming off a two-point game against Colorado, so there’s a chance he carries that momentum into the upcoming matchup.
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