The Stanley Cup Playoffs begin today, and we have three Game 1s on the schedule.
Lots of star power is in action, and my NHL player props will include Matt Boldy, Evgeni Malkin, and Brady Tkachuk.
Read more in my NHL picks for Saturday, April 18.
Best NHL player prop bets today
| Player |  |
|---|---|
 Matt Boldy Over 0.5 points |
-170 |
 Evgeni Malkin Over 0.5 assists |
+115 |
 Brady Tkachuk Over 0.5 assists |
+155 |
Get a first bet encore up to $800 with BET99 bonus code COVERSNHL.
(not available in Ontario)
Our best NHL player props for Saturday, April 18
Take a look at our best bets and expert analysis below.
Prop #1: Matt Boldy Over 0.5 points
Matt Boldy just had a monster campaign for the Minnesota Wild, and he’ll be looking to keep it rolling in the first round against the Dallas Stars.
The American has notched 42 goals and 43 assists this season, and he’s cashed the points Over in three of his last four contests.
The youngster has also shone against the Stars in 2025-26. Across four meetings, he’s scored twice and tallied four helpers.
Boldy is going to be key in Minnesota’s success in this series, and he’s proven to be a reliable figure on the top line. Boldy will produce in Game 1.
- Time: 5:30 p.m. ET
- Where to watch: ESPN
Prop #2: Evgeni Malkin Over 0.5 assists
Evgeni Malkin is still doing it all after so many years.
He finished the regular season with 42 assists, serving as one of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ top playmakers. The Russian has hit the Over in helpers in three of his last four appearances.
Malkin has thrived at home as a passer, notching 24 assists in 28 games.
The Pens host the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 1 tonight, and he’s already grabbed four helpers in four meetings with Philly this season.
- Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
- Where to watch: ESPN
Prop #3: Brady Tkachuk Over 0.5 assists
Brady Tkachuk had another solid campaign for the Ottawa Senators, compiling 22 goals and 37 assists. He’s one of the players who makes this offense go, and Tkachuk will be key in a tough series against the Carolina Hurricanes.
The 26-year-old comes in hot, notching five helpers across his last three.
Tkachuk had an assist on Thursday against the Florida Panthers, and he also grabbed four helpers last Tuesday against a very good Tampa Bay Lightning team.
While he’s failed to have an assist against Carolina this season, Tkachuk has 11 SOG against them in three meetings, and he’s registered 18 helpers in 30 road outings.
- Time: 3:00 p.m. ET
- Where to watch: ESPN
These props are available now at BET99, one of our best betting sites.
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
