Current Form: The Oilers have been playing confidently but have yet to reach their peak. They currently sit in sixth place in the Western Conference with 87 points. Over the last five games, the Oilers have secured four victories, showcasing an aggressive style and strong scoring ability. They defeated the Rangers (3:1), crushed Utah (7:1), and edged out Seattle (5:4) in a tight battle. Their only loss came in overtime against Winnipeg (3:4).
However, the biggest concern for Edmonton heading into this game is injuries to key players. Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl will be absent, significantly weakening the team’s offensive power. In their last match, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins stepped up with a hat trick. Zach Hyman and Evan Bouchard will also play crucial roles in compensating for the absence of their stars.
Strengths:
Injuries: McDavid, Draisaitl, Klingberg, Kane, and Frederick will not play in this game.
Current Form: The Stars are having a solid season and remain among the Western Conference leaders. Currently, they hold second place with 94 points. In recent matches, Dallas has demonstrated defensive reliability and attacking consistency. They secured wins against Anaheim (4:3 OT), Philadelphia (3:2 OT), and Minnesota (3:0). Goaltender Jake Oettinger recorded a shutout in the last game, highlighting the team’s strong defensive presence.
Dallas’s key players include Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz, and Joe Pavelski, who provide offensive firepower. A notable addition to the team is Mikko Rantanen, who has already made an impact since joining.
Strengths:
Injuries: Seguin, Heiskanen, and Lundkvist will miss the match.
Earlier this season, Edmonton faced Dallas and won 5:4. However, circumstances have changed—Edmonton is missing key players, while Dallas remains stable and confident.
Dallas enters this match in a better position. They have been consistent and hold an advantage in player availability. While Edmonton will have the home-ice advantage, the absence of McDavid and Draisaitl could severely impact their offensive potential. Expect a close game, but Dallas appears to have the upper hand. Prediction: a Dallas victory by 1-2 goals.
Edmonton has a strong chance of securing two points in this matchup. The Oilers have been in good form recently, and their victory against Seattle demonstrated that they can perform at a high level even without Draisaitl and McDavid. Meanwhile, Dallas has struggled to win games in regulation time, which could play in Edmonton’s favor. Prediction: Edmonton will not lose in regulation time (odds 1.77).
