In the best game on Sunday’s slate, the Colorado Avalanche will play host to the Edmonton Oilers.
This contest has big playoff implications in the Western Conference, with Edmonton trailing Seattle by just one point in the Pacific Division and Colorado holding a two-point advantage over Minnesota in the Central.
Will the Avs defend their home barn, or can the Oilers pull off the upset on the road as slight underdogs?
Find out in our free NHL picks and predictions for Oilers vs Avalanche on Sunday, February 19.
Oilers vs Avalanche best odds
Oilers vs Avalanche picks and predictions
While the Edmonton Oilers enter Sunday's contest amidst a three-game slide, now is the time to buy low. Spearheaded by two of the best players on the planet, Edmonton ranks fourth in the league in expected goals for per 60 minutes (xGF/60) at 5-on-5.
On top of that, the blue line has improved this season as the Oilers rank in the top half of the league in expected goals against per 60 minutes (xGA/60) at 5-on-5. Backing up this improved defense is goaltender Stuart Skinner.
Riding the momentum of an incredible rookie campaign, Skinner boasts a .913 save percentage (SV%) and 2.95 goals against average (GAA). Based on his metrics, regression should not be an issue for Edmonton’s netminder.
Among starting goalies, Skinner ranks third in goals saved above expected per 60 minutes (GSAx/60) at 5-on-5. This tremendous play should continue against the Colorado Avalanche, who he performed tremendously against back in January.
In his lone career start against the Avs, Skinner stopped 43 of 46 pucks for a .935 SV%. While the defending champs are obviously an incredible team, they fall a bit short to the superior Oilers this season.
At 5-on-5, Edmonton ranks eighth in the league in expected goal-share percentage thanks to the dynamic duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Drasaitl. The Oilers also come off a day of rest, compared to the Avs who are on the second leg of a back-to-back.
My best bet: Oilers moneyline (+105 at DraftKings)
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 bonus 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
Oilers vs Avalanche moneyline analysis
Each of these teams’ strengths lay in different departments, which should ultimately create an exciting matchup that is closely contested. Edmonton is one of the best offensive teams in the league, while Colorado possesses a defense that ranks ninth in goals allowed per game (2.75).
On the flip side, the Avs have been very disappointing in the scoring department at even strength. With Colorado still favored, give me the road team at plus money.
Oilers vs Avalanche Over/Under analysis
It's tough to gauge the total when handicapping this contest, particularly because of the contrast of strengths and weaknesses. The Oilers are an aggressive team that scores at will, which is why the Over is 34-17 in their games this season.
Meanwhile, Colorado is much more patient with an absolutely loaded blue line, resulting in the Under cashing in 31 of its 50 games this season. While both goalies are strong enough for an Under to successfully cash, it's hard to make that bet considering the abundance of offensive firepower in this matchup.
Oilers vs Avalanche betting trend to know
Edmonton is undefeated in its last four games as the betting underdog. Find more NHL betting trends for Oilers vs Avalanche.
Oilers vs Avalanche game info
| Location: | Ball Arena, Denver, CO |
| Date: | Sunday, February 19, 2023 |
| Puck drop: | 3:00 p.m. ET |
| TV: | Sportsnet, ESPN+ |
Oilers vs Avalanche key injuries
