Edmonton (0-0) at Vegas (0-0)
- When: May 6 2025, 9:30 PM
- Where: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- TV: ESPN
Oilers vs. Golden Knights Game 1 Preview
Moneyline: Vegas -137 | Total: 6.5
Vegas Golden Knights Outlook
The defending champs are back in familiar territory, kicking off another playoff series with the target on their back. After clawing their way past Minnesota in six close games, including two thrilling OT wins, Vegas leans on its defensive structure and postseason pedigree to neutralize the high-flying Oilers.
Adin Hill was shaky at times in Round 1 with an .880 save percentage, but Vegas tightened up in key moments and leaned on its depth. Tomas Hertl and Jack Eichel each notched five points, and their production will be critical again facing Edmonton’s elite scorers.
Coach Bruce Cassidy knows what’s coming: McDavid and Draisaitl on the same line is hockey chaos incarnate. Vegas, third in goals allowed per game this season (2.61), must rely on disciplined shifts and physical play to slow down Edmonton’s transition game. The Knights won the previous playoff matchup in 2023 and are favored again—but they’ll need every ounce of structure and opportunism to replicate that result.
Edmonton Oilers Outlook
Edmonton enters with revenge on its mind after Vegas ousted them en route to the Cup last season. The Oilers erased a 2-0 series hole against the Kings, and now they want to flip the script against the team that crushed their 2023 run.
Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are in peak form, combining for over 190 points in the regular season. Edmonton’s power play is lethal, and their offensive firepower will test a Vegas team that showed cracks defensively against Minnesota. Goalie Stuart Skinner will need to match Adin Hill’s clutch performances for the Oilers to take control.
Coach Kris Knoblauch, who wasn’t behind the bench during last year’s loss to Vegas, has guided the Oilers with a calmer hand. Still, the core remembers that collapse and seems poised to unleash. McDavid’s 128 playoff points in 80 games speak for themselves—he’s ready to make another deep push.
Betting Prediction:
Vegas may be the slight favorite, but Edmonton has had more rest and more firepower. Look for the Oilers to set the tone in a fast-paced Game 1 that leans toward the Over.
Final Score Prediction: Oilers 5, Golden Knights 3
Lean: Edmonton ML (+117)
Total: Over 6.5 (EVEN)
- NHL Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
