Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are happening and gives our predictions for each one, breaking down head-to-head and other factors that may play in. We also have a featured game of the day, which is considered must-watch TV. Today’s featured game is the Edmonton Oilers vs Vegas Golden Knights. Keep checking our NHL predictions throughout the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
NHL Predictions
New Jersey Devils vs Carolina Hurricanes
Series: Devils 0-0 Hurricanes
Our first game of NHL predictions has thew New Jersey Devils taking on the Carolina Hurricanes. The Devils are fresh off their long series against the New York Rangers. Akira Schmid came into the series in Game 3 and changed the dynmaic of everything. The Devils were able to use their speed and their defence to take care of the Rangers. Now they get a chance at the division champion Hurricanes. There’s no word on Timo Meier‘s status after the hit by Jacob Trouba. However, Meier will need to produce when does get back into the lineup. Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier have played like top picks this post-season.
Carolina may go with Frederik Andersen after Antti Raanta started the first five games. The Hurricanes have a little more rest after finishing the New York Islanders off last week. Carolina’s forward group has been hit pretty hard with injuries. However, the Hurricanes were able to piece together just enough offence to get past the first round. Losing Teuvo Teravainen is a big blow, but there’s hope Jack Drury will be back for Game 1.
It’s always the question of rest vs rust with the Canes while the Devils might be tired from a seven-game series. However, the Devils forward depth should help them here.
Prediction: Devils win 3-1.
Edmonton Oilers vs Vegas Golden Knights
Series: Oilers 0-0 Golden Knights
Our featured game of NHL predictions has the Pacific Division rivals going at it. The Oilers beat the Los Angeles Kings in a tough six-game series. Stuart Skinner is likely to draw the start for Edmonton. Leon Draisaitl picked up the slack while Connor McDavid was the main focus of the Kings’ defence. Edmonton’s power play was deadly as it converted 9 of 16 chances in the opening round. The Oilers star power has also gotten a boost from Evan Bouchard and will need the supporting cast to pick up goal-scoring slack if needed.
Laurent Brossoit will be tasked with stopping the high-powered Oilers offence. Knights coach Bruce Cassidy has given his team a balance approach and given the club stability. It also helps that Mark Stone came back into the lineup at the start of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Chandler Stephenson and Stone both lead the Golden Knights in points with eight this post-season. William Karlsson and Jack Eichel have also contributed during the opening series win against the Winnipeg Jets.
Both these teams should be well-rested and Vegas will have the final change. Whoever gets better goaltending in the series should win this.
Prediction: Oilers win 4-3.
Main photo by: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
