Welcome to the Fantasy Alarm NHL Playbook. This is your all-in-one resource for everything DFS related for tonight's 11-game slate. Let’s dive into the action and see which players we should watch closely.

For the NHL bets, we have not one, not two, but THREE different Best Bets! I know this season has been a challenge for me personally, but if you think I’m going to give up as the Maple Leafs do in the playoffs, you’re mistaken. We continue to seek out positive value to target. You can access all expert picks, including mine, right here.

Season Record: 15-25-0

Season Bankroll: -11.43 Units

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NHL Picks, Predictions & Best Bets Today, 12/29

Buffalo Sabres vs St. Louis Blues Prediction

The Buffalo Sabres have been on an impressive run over the past few weeks, yet they are only slight favorites against the St. Louis Blues. Did I miss something? The Blues have been performing better lately, and goalie Joel Hofer has won three consecutive games. However, his overall statistics at home are not very strong, while Alex Lyon has won his last six starts. Even if it comes down to a goalie matchup, I would choose Lyon without hesitation. The Sabres' winning streak will come to an end, but not tonight.

Columbus Blue Jackets vs Ottawa Senators Prediction

The Blue Jackets are playing their second game in two consecutive nights and are relying on Elvis Merzlikins, who has a 4.04 goals-against average (GAA) this season. To make matters worse, their flight was delayed multiple times due to mechanical issues and adverse weather conditions, causing them to arrive today only to play shortly afterward. Hockey players thrive on routine, and any disruption can throw them off their game.

Meanwhile, the Senators announced that Linus Ullmark will be away from the team for personal reasons, so Leevi Merilainen will need to step up in goal. Both teams have struggled with goaltending, so I expect to see plenty of scoring opportunities and frequent goals.

San Jose Sharks vs Anaheim Ducks Prediction

The Anaheim Ducks have shown strong offensive capabilities, but they have struggled to keep the puck out of their net throughout the season. In their last five games, they have experienced a couple of blowout losses. However, they are returning home for an exciting matchup against the San Jose Sharks. The Sharks are not a strong team, and their performance on the road has been particularly poor. They allow a significant number of shots, and given Anaheim's ability to capitalize on their opportunities, the Ducks should score often. In their first meeting, these teams combined for 13 goals. While I expect this game to feature numerous goals, it likely won't reach that high a total again. Overall, I believe the Ducks will cover the Puck Line in this matchup.

 

 

 

Today's NHL DFS Cheat Sheet & Stacks

Goalie of the Day: MacKenzie Blackwood - COL

I would prefer not to spend $8,500 on a goalie tonight, but we can't overlook MacKenzie Blackwood’s excellent matchup. While the Kings are a strong road team, no one can defeat the Avalanche on their home ice. Blackwood has an impressive record of 5-0-0 with a 1.57 GAA at home. We either need to take advantage of this opportunity or risk getting left behind. He is undoubtedly the top cash game goalie.

Honourable Mention: Alex Lyon - BUF

I'm feeling optimistic about the Buffalo Sabres today, but I'm also a bit uncertain. As I mentioned earlier, Alex Lyon is currently on a hot streak, and he consistently gives his team a solid chance to win whenever he’s in goal. The Blues are struggling, and I don’t think anyone can change my mind about that. I know this winning streak won’t last forever, but I’m willing to take a risk on the veteran goalie in a GPP and hope for a positive outcome.

Player of the Day: Nathan MacKinnon - COL

I don't see how anyone can bet against Nathan MacKinnon and still expect to profit. He is playing at an exceptional level and is consistently dominating every goalie he faces. The Avalanche are nearly unbeatable at home, and I doubt the Kings will be able to contain him. MacKinnon is averaging over 21 fantasy points per game, which offers great value even with a $9,900 price tag on DraftKings. You could choose to avoid him, but I recommend building your lineup around him instead.

Honourable Mention: Connor McDavid - EDM

Connor McDavid woke up at the start of December and decided to go all out. He has been on an impressive scoring streak for nearly a month and shows no signs of slowing down. McDavid is shooting the puck at an elite level, making him an excellent choice to secure both shot and point bonuses on DraftKings. If you’re not choosing Nathan MacKinnon, McDavid is the next best expensive option.

Value Play of the Day: Collin Graf - SJS

With so many expensive players to choose from, we need to focus on some value options. Although the Sharks have struggled on the road, they are unlikely to be shut out tonight. Collin Graf has scored five goals in the last four games and continues to play alongside Macklin Celebrini. Priced under $4,000, Graf is an excellent way to gain exposure to Celebrini without having to roster him. He’s my top value pick on the slate and can be used effectively in all formats.

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Player Pool

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Stacks

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