NHL bets: Points props for Wednesday night

A few games in particular on this NHL Wednesday evening pop off the page for expected scoring, so the approach here focuses on points props.

We've got two plus-money plays loaded up for hockey Wednesday, so let's get right to the bets and what we like about them. 

Auston Matthews over 1.5 points (+134 FD)

We'll start with Auston Matthews, as his Toronto Maple Leafs are in an advantageous spot for goal-scoring.

Toronto has been one of the highest-scoring teams all season, and their 4.0 goals per game in their past five at home is an enviable spot to target.

They'll host the Devils, who have allowed 5.0 goals per game on the road in their past five, a terrific intersection.

Beyond the numbers, we tend to believe Toronto can get four to six goals up Tuesday because of some scheduling notes.

The Leafs are rested, having not played since Sunday, while the Devils are on a back-to-back after a big win over a rival.

That narrative leads us to the belief that Toronto can pour them on against a weary New Jersey defense. 

If it's Jon Gillies in net for the Devils, we like this pick even more.

We haven't even mentioned Matthews yet, but the man is one of the most talented players in the league and needs limited introduction.

There are two things that push this pick over the edge for me. The first is his recent hit-rate, going over 1.5 points in 14 of his last 22 games and seven of his last 10 at home.

The second factor is Matthews production against this New Jersey team. In two prior games this season, Matthews has compiled six points against the Devils.

We like that streak to continue here at +134.

Points parlay: Valeri Nichuskin and Dylan Strome (+159 FD)

We cashed a SOG parlay here Tuesday night, so let's keep that momentum rolling with this two-leg points parlay.

We like Colorado to score some goals Wednesday, considering they average 4.0 goals per game in their last five at home and Vancouver is letting up 4.0 goals per game in their last five on the road.

We've had our eyes on Nichuskin, a member of the Avs top line, for a few weeks now. Being on the ice alongside Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen has its benefits, and they come in the form of points.

Nichuskin has five points in his last three games and has registered one-plus point in six of his last nine home games.

Meanwhile, we think Chicago is also in a good spot to score, with their and Anaheim's goal averages both over the 3.0 threshold.

We stay on the theme of targeting a member of the top line with our inclusion of Dylan Strome.

Strome is rolling lately, with 14 points in his last nine games, including four against this very same Ducks team.

He's been steady on the road as well, with one-plus point in eight of his last 10.

Together, we get a +159 parlay on FanDuel.

Let's see some goals Wednesday night in the NHL, best of luck if you join the ride!