NHL Best Bets & DFS Cheat Sheet, 2/5: Picks, Predictions & Player Props
Published: Feb 05, 2026
Welcome to the Fantasy Alarm NHL Playbook. This is your one-stop shop for everything DFS related for tonight’s 7-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: 27-32
Season Bankroll: -7.14 Units
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NHL Picks, Predictions & Best Bets Today, 2/5
New York Islanders vs New Jersey Devils Prediction
Vegas sportsbooks are rarely mistaken, so there may be information we aren't aware of. What have the Devils done recently to be favoured at home? Jack Hughes is not playing, and their offence has been struggling for most of the season. Are the Islanders an elite offensive team? Not exactly, but they do have a top-notch goalie and the ability to score more goals than New Jersey. We'll support the Islanders to secure a win before the Olympic break.
- New York Islanders Money Line (-105 on DraftKings Sportsbook)
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Today's NHL DFS Cheat Sheet & Stacks
Goalie of the Day: Ilya Sorokin - NYI
I’m unsure why Ilya Sorokin is priced at $7,600 on DraftKings, given the recent performance of the Devils. Although his last two starts have been challenging, he holds a record of 12-6-1 with a 2.22 GAA, a .920 save percentage, and five shutouts on the road. Perhaps I’m mistaken, but I’m fully backing Sorokin tonight. If it doesn’t work out, you’ll find me at the bottom of the ocean!
Honourable Mention: Brandon Bussi - CAR
When it comes to NHL teams struggling to score goals, the Rangers are facing a tough challenge tonight at Madison Square Garden. New York made a questionable trade by sending Artemi Panarin away for just a bag of salted peanuts, further weakening an already struggling offence. They have been a disaster on their home ice since the beginning of the season, and now they’re up against a Carolina team that leads the league in shots on the road. While I’m not sure if Brandon Bussi will meet expectations, he has a solid chance of securing a win, which is crucial for cash games.
Player of the Day: Nikita Kucherov - TBL
Nikita Kucherov is the first player this season to reach 90 points, and he has been virtually unstoppable over the past few weeks. In his last five games, he has recorded an impressive 16 points and 22 shots on goal—numbers that resemble something from a video game. Despite his outstanding performance, he is priced under $10,000 in daily fantasy sports. Although the Panthers are a tough opponent, Kucherov is matchup-proof and will be expected to lead the offence, especially with so many injuries affecting the team’s center position.
Honourable Mention: Bo Horvat - NYI
It may not be the most glamorous choice, but Bo Horvat could be a valuable asset in your lineup for a GPP. He has scored 23 goals in 43 games and recently had a three-point performance against the Penguins. While his road performance isn't as dominant, I believe he has a good chance of scoring against the Devils and accumulating several shots. He’s a strong option as a single pick in all formats.
Value Play of the Day: Vladislav Gavrikov - NYR
If the Rangers want to avoid embarrassment on home ice, they need everyone to be committed to blocking shots. Vladislav Gavrikov can certainly contribute to that, and he also has some offensive potential. He has recorded four points in the last three games, but ultimately, we just need him to perform to his value. I don't mind how he does it; he just needs to find a way.
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