Golden Knights vs. Panthers: The best player prop bets for Jan. 27

An intriguing interconference matchup awaits at FLA Live Arena on Thursday night as the Vegas Golden Knights visit the Florida Panthers. The Golden Knights still lead the Pacific Division, though they’ve won just three of their last nine games. The Panthers remain atop the Atlantic Division, and have won seven of their last nine overall.

Let’s dive into a bustling player prop market and hand out our top three selections for this contest.

Vegas Golden Knights (25-15-3) at Florida Panthers (29-9-5), 7:00 p.m. ET

Jonathan Marchessault Over/Under 2.5 shots

Jonathan Marchessault is Vegas’ leading shot producer (131), and he should have little trouble tallying three of them against Florida on Thursday night.

Marchessault is averaging 3.4 shots per tilt this year, and has tallied at least three shots in 68.4% of the games he’s suited up for. Florida has allowed 32.1 shots per game this season, a modest 20th in the NHL, so Marchessault is not facing a very stingy defense.

NHL pick: Over (-177)

Anthony Duclair to score one point

Though Anthony Duclair is more known for his goal-scoring prowess – and he’s available at +170 to find the twine in this one – the balance of risk compared to the payoff is more favorable in the points department.

Though he has a goal in four of his last seven overall, Duclair has an assist – and only an assist – in two of his last three games. He’s also taken two shots or fewer in six of his last eight contests, suggesting that Duclair is attempting to play a more balanced game.

NHL pick: Yes (-139)

Sam Bennett goal scorer

The Golden Knights are not the most defensively-sound team in the NHL, as they’re 19th in goals allowed per game this season (2.98). That bodes well for Sam Bennett, whose stick is as hot as anyone’s on the Panthers’ bench lately.

Bennett has nine goals through eight games played this month, including a hat-trick earned against the Dallas Stars on Jan. 14. Two of those goals came on the power play, which spells trouble for Vegas, as they’re also 19th in penalty killing this year (78.5%).

Bennett’s home splits are another reason for optimism here – he’s taken 40 more shots at FLA Live Arena over only five additional games and scored 13 goals, compared to just five through 14 contests as a visiting player.

NHL pick: Bennett anytime goal (+170)