Edmonton (27-13-3) at Minnesota (27-13-4)
- When: Jan 15 2025, 8:30 PM
- Where: Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul, MN, USA
- TV: TNT
NHL Betting Breakdown: Wild vs. Oilers Preview and Predictions
The Edmonton Oilers are -205 moneyline favorites as they head to Minnesota to take on the Wild. The total is set at 6.0, reflecting Edmonton’s explosive offense and the Wild’s depleted defense due to injuries.
Game Overview
The Minnesota Wild continue to navigate choppy waters without several key players, including superstar Kirill Kaprizov, who is itching to return but remains uncertain for Wednesday’s game. With Kaprizov still sidelined and Minnesota missing captain Jared Spurgeon, defensemen Brock Faber and Jonas Brodin, and forward Jakub Lauko, the Wild face a daunting task.
On the flip side, the Oilers are surging with a 6-1-0 record in their last seven games, powered by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, who have combined for an impressive 123 points this season.
Key Factors and Matchup Insights
Oilers’ Offensive Firepower:
Edmonton’s offense is one of the most prolific in the league, averaging over 4 goals per game in their last 10 contests. Draisaitl leads the team with 31 goals and 64 points, while McDavid continues to shine with 59 points. The duo will look to exploit a banged-up Wild defense.
Minnesota’s Defensive Depth Tested:
The Wild have been resilient but are now stretched thin defensively. Filip Gustavsson, Minnesota’s primary goaltender, boasts a solid 2.50 GAA and .917 save percentage. However, facing McDavid and Draisaitl without his top blueliners will test his mettle.
Previous Meetings:
The series is split 1-1. Minnesota won 5-3 in the first game, but Edmonton responded with a 7-1 blowout in their second clash. Edmonton’s ability to dominate offensively in that game may set the tone for this one.
Betting Trends and Stats
Edmonton is 7-3 in their last 10 road games and has covered the puck line in four of their last six wins.
Minnesota is 3-7 in their last 10 home games and has struggled against teams with winning records.
The over has hit in seven of Edmonton’s last 10 games and five of the last six matchups between these teams.
Predictions and Best Bets
Moneyline: Edmonton (-205)
The Oilers’ high-powered offense and recent form make them the clear favorites, especially against a shorthanded Wild team. Consider taking Edmonton to win outright despite the heavy odds.
Total Over 6.0 Goals (-110)
With Edmonton’s offensive juggernaut and Minnesota’s defensive challenges, this game has the makings of a shootout. The over has been a consistent trend in Oilers games.
Prop Bet: Leon Draisaitl Over 1.5 Points (+125)
Draisaitl has been on fire, and against a weakened Wild defense, he’s a strong candidate to rack up multiple points.
Prop Bet: Filip Gustavsson Over 31.5 Saves (-105)
The Wild’s goaltender will likely face a barrage of shots, making this a good value play for total saves.
Final Score Prediction:
Edmonton 5, Minnesota 2
Expect Edmonton to control the pace and capitalize on Minnesota’s absences. With McDavid and Draisaitl leading the charge, the Oilers should cruise to a comfortable win.
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
