Edmonton Oilers (49-27-6) vs. Dallas Stars (52-21-9)
Edmonton Oilers vs. Dallas Stars Game 1 5/23/24 – The Edmonton Oilers and Dallas Stars are set to clash in a thrilling NHL West Final Game 1 on May 23, 2024, at the American Airlines Center. Both teams boast impressive records, with the Oilers finishing the regular season at 49-27-6 and the Stars slightly ahead at 52-21-9. This matchup is one of the most anticipated of the playoffs, providing a critical test for each squad. As fans and bettors alike prepare for this showdown, insights from the best multi-handicapper picks are eagerly anticipated to gauge the likely outcomes of what promises to be an electrifying series.
Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are the dangerous offensive assets of an Edmonton Oilers team. McDavid who has scored 32 goals and had 100 assists for a total of 132 points for the season has been a key player in Edmonton’s attack. His ability to score at an 18.3% rate and Draisaitl’s 2.6 goals and 1.5 assists per game are a nightmare for any defense. This might just come in handy because the Oilers are notoriously good at getting past the defensive line and the Stars as a team have exhibited superb resilience at the back. Game 1 of the series is likely to depend on the comparison of Edmonton’s offense approaches and the defense of Dallas.
However, on the other end are the Dallas Stars with the offensive line led by Jason Robertson with 80 points from 29 goals and 51 assists. Behind him sit veterans such as Joe Pavelski and Roope Hintz can recall on defense to expose the Oilers weaknesses in. Pavelski’s ability to come up with decisive plays right when it is needed and specifically on the power play combined with Hintz who is fast and has a mobile frame makes for a strong offensive presence for the Stars. Their part will be to make a way around Edmonton defensive structures and especially the goaltending where the Oilers have been unstable on the road.
Edmonton Oilers vs. Dallas Stars Game Info
| When: | Thursday, May 23, 2024 at 8:30 PM ET |
| Where: | American Airlines Center |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Stuart Skinner vs. Goaltender Jake Oettinger
Stuart Skinner has been a rock for the Oilers playing a total of 59 games with a save percentage of .905 and 2.62 GAA. He will be key to stopping the Stars’ tactical risk enterprise. Skinner’s performance in the most critical stage of the game when a shootout is requested will be tested against the analysis of forwards strategy in Dallas.
Jake Oettinger for Dallas also has a .905 save percentage though has a GAA 2.72 higher than Sorokin over 54 games. His save performance on shootouts with a .750 save percentage could be valuable in close competitions. Oettinger’s job will be containing McDavid and Draisaitl duo who are expected to give the Russian his best outing of the season.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As the betting lines open, specific odds on the moneyline and point spreads will play a pivotal role in betting strategies. The game’s total over/under will also be a critical factor, considering both teams have seen a tendency for higher-scoring games, as indicated by recent trends.
Edmonton Oilers Betting Trends
The Oilers have also been on a good run of form with four one in the last five games. Nevertheless, their ATS against the spread away from home shows they are still lacking certain qualities playing on the road. These trends will let the bettors understand the Oilers’ capacity to cover spread points in potentially close games.
Dallas Stars Betting Trends
Although the Stars are 3-2 in their previous five matches overall, they have an inconsistent record against the spread, which will be an element of concern or opportunity for the gamblers. They have a better home ATS record (4-2) than the overall one, which means their home performance where they host the Mavericks at the American Airlines Center is better.
Edmonton Oilers vs. Dallas Stars 1/23/24 Betting Picks
Given the analysis and recent trends, the first game between the Oilers and Stars is poised to be closely contested. With both teams displaying strong offensive skills but some inconsistencies in defense, the game could tilt towards a higher scoring affair.
In deciding between the two, the Oilers might face challenges given their weaker road spread record, but their top offensive talents could just tip the scales in their favor if they perform to potential. Prop bets on goal totals and key player performances, like McDavid or Draisaitl scoring, might offer additional value. For those looking for NHL Western Finals no-cost picks, keep an eye on the evolving odds and player conditions closer to the game day.
Free Pick and Prediction: Edmonton Oilers 4, Dallas Stars 3