The Vegas Golden Knights are advancing to the second round of the NHL Playoffs for the fourth time in the team’s six year history.
They have a tough test ahead of them in the Edmonton Oilers, who are now the favorites to come out of the Western Conference. The Oilers have the best defense they’ve had in the Connor McDavid era and are a dangerous team for any one to face in the playoffs.
Let’s take a look at the odds to win the series and then I’ll give you my prediction.
Golden Knights vs. Oilers series odds
Golden Knights vs. Oilers series prediction
I’m not a believer in the Golden Knights and the Oilers is my favorite series bet of the second round.
The Golden Knights may have won the Pacific Division, but you wouldn’t have known it if you just looked at their season-long metrics. Here’s how they ranked in a few major analytics:
- 22nd in CORSI%
- 20th in FENWICK%
- 16th in expected goals%
- 12th in high-danger scoring chances
- 12th in shooting%
Those aren’t exactly the type of numbers that make up a Stanley Cup contender. That’s especially the case when you consider the Oilers are 7th, 13th, 4th, 3rd, and 1st in those respective categories.
Connor McDavid has failed to make a Stanley Cup Final so far in this career, but that was largely due to his teams having next to no one for defense. That’s not the case this season. They’re loaded on defense and are now poised to make a run at the Cup.
I’ll back the Oilers to get the job done and advance to the Western Conference Final.
–
Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.