Panthers vs Oilers: NHL Match Preview

Match Information

If you're planning on watching today’s game between the Panthers and Oilers, you're in for an exciting evening of hockey. The clash will take place at Rogers Place in Edmonton, AB, with the puck dropping at 8:00 PM ET on ABC.

Betting Odds

For this matchup, the betting odds have set the over/under goal line at 5.5 goals. The Edmonton Oilers are favored by -1.5 against the Florida Panthers.

Head-to-Head and Key Stats

The recent history between these teams reveals some intriguing statistics. The Panthers, often the underdog in this matchup, have managed to win two out of the last three games against the Oilers. Furthermore, when examining matchups in Edmonton, the over/under record stands at 1-2, with an average of six goals scored collectively in those games.

Florida boasts a strong record of 7-3 in their last ten road games, matching a 5-5 record against the puck line. During these outings, the Panthers have averaged three goals per game. On the other side, the Edmonton Oilers have a 3-2 straight-up record in their last five home games and have also averaged three goals per game.

Interestingly, when Edmonton is the betting underdog, they've posted a 2-3 straight-up record over the last five games, with a 2-3 record against the puck line. Conversely, the Panthers have excelled as betting favorites, holding a 2-1 record against the puck line and a perfect 3-0 straight-up record in their last three games.

Prediction

The Panthers are currently sitting comfortably in third place in the Eastern Conference, with 110 points and an impressive record of 52-24-6. Florida has been in formidable form, winning eight of their last ten games and riding a four-game winning streak. Their road performance has been notable, boasting a 26-11-4 record this season. They have been favored in 67 of their 82 games this season, showcasing their dominance.

Offensively, the Panthers are potent, averaging 3.2 goals per game, which ranks them 11th in the NHL. Florida excels in other areas too, being second in the league in shots on target per game, sixth in power play goals, and 10th in shorthanded goals. Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky will be starting for Florida, and he brings an impressive record of 36-17 and a save percentage of 0.948% across 58 starts this season.

On the other hand, the Edmonton Oilers have also shown strong form at home, with a record of 28-9-4, and have been favored in 71 of their 82 games this season. Within the Western Conference, the Oilers sit in fifth place and second in the Pacific Division. However, their recent form has shown some inconsistencies, going 5-5 over their last ten games and losing their last two contests.

Edmonton's overall season record stands at 49-27-6 with 104 points. They've performed well against other Western Conference teams, holding a solid 30-20 record, and have gone 18-8 against divisional opponents. However, they have struggled slightly in their last five games, going 2-3 and losing their last three contests.

Offensively, the Oilers have been one of the most formidable teams in the league, averaging 3.6 goals per game, which ranks them fourth in the NHL. They lead the league in shots on goal per game. Edmonton has managed a 33-18 record when they have had more shots than their opponents and a 16-8 record in games with fewer shots on goal. Goaltender Stuart Skinner will start for Edmonton, bringing with him a record of 36-16 and a save percentage of 0.931% over 57 starts this season.

Given the Oilers’ status as 1.5-point favorites, our NHL analytics models predict a closely contested game, with Edmonton narrowly prevailing 4-3.

Betting Tips

Considering the current betting lines, it is advisable to take the Oilers on the moneyline. On the spread, the Panthers are a more attractive option at +1.5. Our NHL model projects a total of seven goals for this game, so taking the over is suggested.

Injury Report

For the Edmonton Oilers:

  • Evander Kane – Hip – Questionable
  • Troy Stecher – Ankle – Out

For the Florida Panthers:

  • No injuries reported

This matchup between the Panthers and Oilers promises to be a thrilling encounter for hockey fans and bettors alike.