Edmonton Oilers vs. Chicago Blackhawks: NHL Odds, Prediction

Sports Interaction Staff
Last Updated: November 6, 2017

Fans and bettors alike have to be wondering what’s going on with the Edmonton Oilers, who came into the season as a Stanley Cup favorite but have looked like a lottery lock through their first five games. They’ll aim to get back on track Thursday night as they face a Chicago Blackhawks team that has looked mostly strong so far, but is in tough on the second night of a back-to-back and is coming off a 6-3 trouncing at the hands of St. Louis a night earlier.

Edmonton Oilers vs. Chicago Blackhawks

Moneyline: Blackhawks -148
Date: Thursday, October 19, 8:30 p.m. ET
Location: United Center, Chicago, Ill.

NHL Odds and Betting Analysis

Oddsmakers are giving Chicago a decent edge in this one, and a quick look at each team’s records certainly validates that. Beyond that, bettors should consider how the Blackhawks have emphatically bucked the trend of teams struggling at the back end of games on consecutive nights; they’ve won 50 of their last 74 games on no rest, including a 3-1 triumph over the Montreal Canadiens in their only prior back-to-back situation this season.

If you’re looking for a reason to invest in Edmonton beyond the obvious (*cough Connor McDavid cough*), consider that the Oilers have been the most shot-unlucky team in hockey through the first two weeks of the season. Edmonton is averaging a whopping 41.2 shots per game – only Florida averages more – but has just 11 goals to show for it. Their 11.6 shot differential per contest is the best in the NHL – and eventually, those shots will go in.

Edmonton Oilers

One day of rest appears to be ideal for the Oilers, who have won 15 of their last 20 games played with a day between contests. They’ve also played to the over in five straight after allowing five or more goals in their previous game. McDavid has been the only player pulling his weight on offense, scoring three goals and adding three assists; he had four points in three meetings with the Blackhawks last season.

Chicago Blackhawks

Ah, those high-scoring Western Conference games. Chicago has been a major contributor in that category, playing to the under just seven times in its previous 33 encounters with West opponents. Look for backup Anton Forsberg to get the start in goal; he dropped a 4-3 overtime decision to Toronto in his only prior action this season. Over has gone 13-6 in the last 19 meetings between these teams, though under prevailed in two of three encounters last season.