Sparked by a players-only meeting, the Edmonton Oilers have rediscovered some of their mojo just in time for tonight’s showdown with the Colorado Avalanche —who dumped them out of the 2022 playoffs.
Five straight losses, including a meltdown in the 5-2 loss to the Kraken on Tuesday, had left Connor McDavid and the Oilers reeling, before a 4-2 bounce-back win over the New York Islanders on Thursday.
The Avalanche have been faltering too, with five straight losses leaving Colorado on the outside of the playoff picture. A 4-2 loss to the Canucks on Thursday was the latest setback for the banged-up visitors.
Learn more in our free Avalanche vs. Oilers NHL picks and predictions ahead of tonight’s matchup.
Avalanche vs Oilers best odds
Avalanche vs Oilers picks and predictions
One impressive victory isn’t enough to throw Edmonton into the heart of the Stanley Cup contenders conversation, but the Oilers looked much more like themselves on Thursday night. Whatever hard truths were shared at the players-only meeting seemed to provide a spark.
The hosts seem to have put their struggles at Rogers Place behind them and I’m expecting that to carry over to tonight against a Colorado team that’s been worn down by injuries.
The visitors will again be without Gabriel Landeskog, Valeri Nichushkin, and Bo Byram, and that just heaps an even bigger burden onto the shoulders of Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen. The clock is ticking for this Avalanche team — if the season ended today, they’d miss out on a wildcard spot.
Meanwhile, more of the Oilers’ X-factors are trending upward after the much-needed win over the Islanders. Jack Campbell had a better night on Thursday between the pipes and Edmonton flew out of the blocks with a dominant first period, recording 15 shots on net.
With the favorite 10-1 in the last 11 meetings between these teams, I’m picking Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl to outduel MacKinnon and Rantanen, giving the Oilers a welcome boost for their playoff push.
My best bet: Oilers moneyline (-125 at bet365)
Looking to do some NHL betting? Here are two of the best bonuses* available:
A) New users at FanDuel can get a no-sweat first bet of up to $1,000! Sign Up Now
B) New users at DraftKings can bet $5 and get $200 in free bets! Sign Up Now
*Eligible USA locations only. Also, check out our full list of best sportsbook promotions for 2023.
21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Avalanche vs Oilers moneyline analysis
The Oilers enter tonight as favorites despite their well-documented recent struggles at Rogers Place and that likely stems from a combination of Edmonton’s improved play against the Islanders and Colorado’s wretched form over the past two weeks.
McDavid led the way on Thursday with a two-assist night while the Oilers looked steadier defensively in front of Campbell. Edmonton had squandered a two-goal lead against the Kraken on Tuesday but was never in danger of repeating that collapse.
The Oilers’ talent is undeniable, but consistency is the buzzword heading into the second half of the season after such a rollercoaster first 40 games. I’m expecting Edmonton to bring its A-game tonight, especially with the chance to gain a measure of revenge for its disappointing postseason exit at the hands of Colorado.
The Avalanche blew a 2-0 lead against the Canucks last time out with a disastrous second period, extending their losing run as their injury list continues to take a toll on performances. Colorado has won the last four meetings but is 0-4 in its last four games against Pacific Division opponents.
Avalanche vs Oilers Over/Under analysis
Shaky goaltending and elite forward play is generally a good combination for the Over, and that’s what we’ve got at Rogers Place tonight, with a star-studded collection of forwards on show.
There should be no shortage of shots on goal, and neither team can feel particularly confident that their goaltender will be up to the challenge. Campbell has been underwhelming for Edmonton since signing his big contract in the summer (.878 save percentage) while Colorado’s Alexandar Georgiev’s save percentage has dipped during the team’s winless run.
The numbers point to a high-scoring duel too. The Over is 11-2 in the Oilers’ last 13 games against a Central Division opponent, and only the Bruins and Sabres have scored more goals this season than Edmonton.
If you’re taking the Under, you’re at least getting an Avalanche team that has scored just two goals in each of their last three games, but don’t be surprised if these teams bring out the best in each other offensively in a high-octane battle.
Avalanche vs Oilers betting trend to know
The Over is 6-1-1 in the Oilers’ last eight games playing on one day’s rest. Find more NHL betting trends for Avalanche vs Oilers.
Avalanche vs Oilers game info
| Location: | Rogers Place, Edmonton, AB |
| Date: | Saturday, January 7, 2023 |
| Puck drop: | 10:00 p.m. ET |
| TV: | CBC |
Avalanche vs Oilers key injuries
