Mikko Rantanen headlines Tuesday’s NHL anytime goalscorer picks.
The pregame narrative: Rantanen has started hot in his first full season with the Dallas Stars, and he has a favourable matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets tonight. Elsewhere, I’m backing New York Islanders forward Anders Lee to produce.
Check out my NHL anytime goal picks for Oct. 21.
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NHL anytime goal picks
Best Bet: Rantanen anytime goalscorer (+125)
Rantanen flexed his clutch gene in the playoffs last year, scoring nine goals and 22 points in 18 games with the Stars.
But the question remains: Can he do it on a random night in October?
The answer is obviously yes. Rantanen scored 42 and 55 goals in his last two full regular seasons with the Colorado Avalanche and has netted three through five entering play on Tuesday.
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The Finnish forward ranks third on Dallas in scoring chances (18) and xG (1.94), per Natural Stat Trick.
Columbus is starting netminder Elvis Merzlikins, who has been consistently below average since his rookie season.
The goaltender has posted a sub-.900 save percentage in three straight seasons, and his 3.54 GAA currently ranks 46th in the league.
Key stat: Rantanen has scored five goals in his last five games against Columbus.
NHL predictions
Lee to score a goal (+220): Lee has continued to produce for the Islanders in his later years, netting 28-plus goals in three of his last four seasons.
He’s already scored two goals in five games so far and has a fantastic matchup tonight against the San Jose Sharks.
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Yaroslav Askarov is in goal for San Jose and he’s gotten shelled through two starts:
- Oct 10 vs. ANA: .841 SV%, 7 GA
- Oct. 17 vs. UTA: .824 SV%, 6 GA
The Russian posted a 3.10 and .896 SV% in 13 appearances last year, so I don’t trust his abilities to rebound behind an awful defence.
San Jose is allowing the most shots against per game (35.8).
NHL anytime goal picks made at 12:30 p.m. ET on 10/21/2025.
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Avery joined NorthStar Gaming as an intern in 2022 before stepping into a full-time role soon after. He loves betting on and analyzing golf — mainly because it’s easier than actually playing — but is a fan of all sports, from the NFL to the UFC.