Welcome back to another day of NHL Predictions. 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 Dallas Stars. Be sure to check out more NHL predictions in the coming days as the 2024 NHL Stanley Cup playoffs roll on.
NHL Predictions
Edmonton Oilers vs Dallas Stars
Series Head-to-Head: Oilers 2- 2 Stars
TV: TNT, TruTV, Sportsnet, TVAS, CBC
Edmonton responded like it always has this post-season. The Oilers reeled off the last five goals of the game to even up the series at two games apiece. It was Edmonton’s supporting cast that helped the team tie the series. Ryan McLeod, Mattias Janmark and Mattias Ekholm aren’t the first players you think of when scoring goals. However, teams that reach the Stanley Cup Final need that depth in order to win.
It’s now Dallas’ turn to make adjustments and it has done that all post-season. The Stars have shown an ability to bounce back and will need that in Game 5. Dallas will need to find the defensive structure to shut down a very good offensive team in Edmonton.
Let’s take a look at the storylines for Game 5 in this round of NHL predictions.
The Oilers Story
It looked like Edmonton was in real big trouble after the first period. However, the Oilers came alive to tie the series and turn it into a best-of-three. The win was a combined effort between the role players and their standouts like Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl and Evan Bouchard. That combined effort is going to be needed again if the Oilers want to head home with a chance to reach the Cup Final.
Stuart Skinner will draw he start again and was good enough in Game 4 with 20 saves. He’ll need to be that good or even better if Edmonton wants to get the advantage going into a Game 6.
The Stars Story
Much like the Oilers in Game 3, the Stars likely got away from their game in Game 4. Dallas looked comfortable with a 2-0 lead after goals by Wyatt Johnston and Esa Lindell. However, Edmonton was able to get more comfortable and rattle off five straight goals. The Stars usually vaunted defence will have to play much better if they want to go to Alberta with a chance to clinch the Clarence Campbell Bowl.
Jake Oettinger will get the start once again for the Stars in this one. However, he’ll also need to play better like the rest of the defence in this important Game 5.
Prediction
This is a massive game for both teams. These two clubs have been able make adjustments with punches and counter-punches. Dallas has been fairly solid at home and it’s a big chance for the club to get the series lead. Expect the defence to do a better job of locking in.
Chris Tanev‘s status will be an important key to the lineup. However, Stars coach Peter DeBoer is optimistic.
Prediction: Stars win 4-2.
Prop Bets of the Night
We’ve got a couple of prop bets for this game. Take Bouchard to get the over on +0.5 power play points in this game for the Oilers. On the Dallas side, go with Miro Heiskanen getting the over on +0.5 assists tonight.
The over/under is 5.5 and that might a scary number. We’ll take the over in this instance with the total being low.
Main photo by: Perry Nelson – USA Today Sports
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