Oilers vs Avalanche prediction: A Western Conference Clash

The Edmonton Oilers (11-9-2) are set to face off against the Colorado Avalanche (12-10-0) on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at Ball Arena in Denver, CO. This Western Conference showdown promises high-stakes action, with both teams looking to secure a crucial victory. The game will be televised on Altitude Sports, and the odds currently favor the Avalanche (-152) over the Oilers (+126), with a betting total set at 6.

Edmonton Oilers: A Look at the Numbers

The Oilers are coming off a 6-2 victory against the Rangers, showcasing their offensive prowess. They scored on 6 of 40 shots, demonstrating efficiency despite not capitalizing on their power-play opportunities (3 chances, 0 goals). However, their defensive performance throughout the season presents cause for concern. Opponents have 55 power-play opportunities (28th in the NHL), resulting in 16 goals. Their save percentage stands at .879, indicating room for improvement. Their offensive strength lies in their even-strength goals (55) compared to goals allowed at even strength (53), a slight advantage.

Goaltending

Calvin Pickard is likely to be in net for the Oilers. He boasts a career record of 51-64-11 with 120 starts and 147 games played. While his save percentage is a respectable .904 over 7,418 minutes, his goals against average (3.07) and relatively low quality start percentage (.500) highlight areas that could be exploited by the Avalanche's offense.

Colorado Avalanche: Analyzing Their Strengths and Weaknesses

The Avalanche are coming off an 8-2 loss to the Lightning, a game that saw them manage only 2 goals on 25 shots. Their power-play performance was also underwhelming (3 chances, 0 goals). Despite these recent struggles, the Avalanche possess considerable offensive talent. They've attempted 649 shots (13th in the NHL) and have a shot percentage of 11.56%. Their power play, while not as effective recently, has a season percentage of 28.99% (20 goals on 69 opportunities), placing them 4th in the NHL.

Goaltending

Justus Annunen is expected to start in goal for the Avalanche. With a career record of 16-9-2 in 29 games and a quality start rate of 54.2%, he offers a level of consistency. His save percentage of .902 shows efficiency, yet his high goals against average (4.17) suggests he might struggle against a high-scoring offense. His total goals allowed (72) in 1037 minutes also speaks to the Avalanche's defensive challenges.

The Betting Odds and Expert Opinion

The odds favor the Avalanche (-152), suggesting that bookmakers believe they have a higher chance of winning. While the Oilers have McDavid and Draisaitl, their overall offensive production, ranked 18th in goals for (2.91 per game) and a dismal 27th in power-play percentage, raises concerns. On the other hand, the Avalanche, despite defensive inconsistencies (allowing 3.65 goals per game, 30th in the league), maintain a strong offensive presence, scoring 3.30 goals per game (11th in the league).

Predicting the Outcome: A Tight Contest

The Oilers' offensive firepower, primarily from McDavid and Draisaitl, presents a significant threat. However, their defensive fragility and underwhelming power play might prove costly against a team like the Avalanche, who are capable of exploiting defensive lapses. Colorado's offensive output, despite their defensive struggles, suggests a high-scoring game is likely. The Avalanche's recent home form (five wins in their last six home games) and the Oilers' struggles in Denver in recent years are also important factors.

While the Avalanche are favored, the Oilers possess the potential for an upset. The game's outcome will likely hinge on the performance of both goaltenders and the ability of each team to capitalize on power-play opportunities. The potential for a high-scoring affair cannot be discounted. Predicting the winner of this game is difficult; however, the home-ice advantage and Avalanche's recent strong play, give them the edge.

This game will be a tight contest with plenty of goals, but we predict the Avalanche will edge out the Oilers in a hard-fought match. The factors that may decide the game, include special teams performance (power-play and penalty kill), goaltending, and which team can handle the pressure of a high-stakes game. Ultimately, this game will be a test for both teams, showing their resilience and skill under pressure. The game is set to start at 10 PM ET, so make sure to tune in for this thrilling showdown.