Welcome into NHL player projections central for the season on Underdog Fantasy! Player projections are becoming one of the hottest growing things in hockey over the past few seasons and I have definitely taken notice as it adds yet another layer to a great game experience. Throughout this season you will find picks offered on the Underdog site that I find the most appealing as there are many to choose from so that's why I'm here to help you sift through the options. 

For today's slate, we have 5 games on tap around the NHL and plenty of options for player props! I have highlighted a trio of plays that I will be following tonight that includes 3 players around the league for the Winnipeg Jets, Detroit Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins! Good luck to everyone on the plays tonight, let's win some cheddar!

 

NHL Underdog Fantasy Top Picks December 18

Mark Scheifele, Winnipeg Jets - HIGHER than 7.55 Fantasy Points

I wanted to take the shots on goal for my man today but he's got a pepper odds boost up to 3.5 shots and that's just a bit too high for me so instead fantasy points are the angle to attack. The Winnipeg center averages 2.5 shots per game that's a good floor then you add the fact that the Habs allow the 3rd most goals per game in the NHL and you pick up some assists or goals and this one goes higher easily. He also has a point in 21 of 29 games this season so that's huge. 

Moritz Seider, Detroit Red Wings - HIGHER than 2.0 Shots on Goal

Over the last 15 games this kid has been cash money hitting the higher on 1.5 shots in 12 of 15 for a 80% hit rate. I know we need an even 2 but it doesn't cost us anything to push tonight. The Ducks also allow 31.8 shots per game and are coming off a back to back and won't be nearly as sharp so let's ride the trends of Seider on the dog app tonight. 

 

Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins - HIGHER than 3.5 Shots on Goal

I haven't seen Crosby shoot the puck with this much volume in years! He is averaging 3.8 shots on goal this season and has gone higher than 3.5 shots in 10 of the past 15 games. The ice minutes remain steady and the Penguins are a top heavy team that lean on their captain every game. The Wild don't allow close to league high in shots but they do still give up 30.75 which is plenty of runway for Sid.