Top Game Picks for Wednesday
With the NHL Playoffs heating up, Wednesday’s slate (May 7, 2025) offers some juicy betting angles. Two matchups on the board bring serious potential, both in game lines and individual props. Here’s where sharp eyes should be looking today.
Panthers vs. Bruins: Florida Eyes a Road Steal
The Panthers head to Boston in what’s expected to be a chippy Game 3. The series is tied 1–1, and both games so far have featured physicality and power play chances. Florida’s depth scoring continues to shine, while Boston leans heavily on their top line.
Recommended Bets
- Florida Panthers ML (+110): Panthers have a stronger even-strength xG (expected goals) rate and carry more offensive depth. Boston is 2-4 in their last six home playoff games as of May 6, 2025.
- Over 5.5 Goals (-105): With both teams combining for 12 goals over the first two games, the over has strong value, especially with high penalty minutes inflating PP chances.
Player Props
| Player | Prop | Line | Why It’s Smart |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matthew Tkachuk | Shots on Goal | Over 3.5 (-125) | Leads the series with 13 SOG. Boston gives up the high slot, where Tkachuk thrives. |
| David Pastrnak | Goal Scored | Yes (+140) | Averaging 4.5 shots/game in playoffs. Due for one, especially at home. |
Oilers vs. Stars: Firepower vs. Discipline
Edmonton has leaned heavily on their core four: McDavid, Draisaitl, Hyman, and Bouchard. Dallas brings a more structured, balanced approach and has limited odd-man rushes effectively. Still, the Oilers’ power play is lethal — converting at 42.1% as of May 6, 2025.
Recommended Bets
- Oilers ML (-115): Edmonton’s top unit is dominating possession. Dallas has struggled defending the cycle game.
- Under 6.5 Goals (-110): Despite the firepower, both teams are slowing the pace. Five of their last six meetings went under.
Player Props
| Player | Prop | Line | Why It’s Smart |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connor McDavid | Assists | Over 1.5 (+110) | Has 9 assists in last 3 games. Oilers PP runs through him. High value at plus money. |
| Evan Bouchard | Power Play Points | Over 0.5 (+105) | Quarterbacking the top unit. Logged PP points in 4 of last 5. |
High-Risk, High-Reward Longshots
For those looking to juice the payout, here are a few sharp longshots that make sense based on matchup data and recent trends:
- Brandon Montour Anytime Goal (+500): His ice time jumped in Game 2. He’s sneaky active off the rush.
- Wyatt Johnston 2+ Points (+600): Quietly leading Dallas in high-danger chances. Could pop if Dallas gets behind early.
- Zach Hyman First Goal (+1000): Scored the opener in 3 of Oilers’ last 5 games. Plays net-front on the PP.
Team Trends and Angles
| Team | Trend | Data Point |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Panthers | 7-2 ATS last 9 road playoff games | As of May 6, 2025 |
| Boston Bruins | 5 straight playoff games hit the over | Last game: May 5, 2025 |
| Edmonton Oilers | PP scored in 9 of last 10 playoff games | Updated May 6, 2025 |
| Dallas Stars | Under is 7-3 in last 10 playoff games | As of May 6, 2025 |
Injury Considerations
Injuries are minimal heading into Wednesday’s slate, but keep an eye on:
- Sam Bennett (FLA): Questionable with a lower-body tweak. If out, value increases for Anton Lundell props.
- Miro Heiskanen (DAL): Practiced fully on May 6, 2025. Expected to play, but mobility may be limited.
