Edmonton (1-0) at Vegas (0-1)
- When: May 8 2025, 9:30 PM
- Where: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- TV: ESPN
Golden Knights vs. Oilers Game 2 Preview and Prediction
Moneyline: Vegas (-138) | Total: 6.5
The Vegas Golden Knights are back on home ice for Game 2 of their Western Conference second-round series against the Edmonton Oilers. After letting a 2-0 lead slip away and falling 4-2 in the opener, Vegas is determined to bounce back and even the series before heading to Edmonton. Despite the loss, the Golden Knights remain slight favorites to take Game 2.
Vegas Golden Knights Overview
The Golden Knights found themselves on the wrong end of history in Game 1, blowing a multi-goal lead for just the fourth time in 102 playoff games. They struggled mightily in the final two periods, managing just seven shots on goal and getting outshot 12-1 in the second period alone. Despite a strong start that saw Mark Stone net two early goals, Vegas faltered as Edmonton surged with three unanswered tallies in the third.
Captain Mark Stone emphasized there’s no panic in the locker room, acknowledging the good and bad parts of their performance. Brandon Saad echoed this sentiment, calling for a “bounce-back game” on home ice before the series shifts to Edmonton. Head coach Bruce Cassidy remains confident, citing their comeback ability in the first round against Minnesota when they rallied from a 2-1 series deficit.
To reclaim momentum, Vegas must rediscover the depth and physicality that carried them to the 2023 Stanley Cup. Their four-line rotation and relentless pressure have been trademarks of their playoff success, and they’ll need to reassert that dominance to even the series.
Edmonton Oilers Overview
The Oilers are riding high after yet another comeback victory, setting an NHL playoff record with five straight come-from-behind wins. After being down 2-0 early, Edmonton took control, outshooting the Golden Knights and dominating possession in the second and third periods. Corey Perry sparked the comeback with his 57th career playoff goal, while Zach Hyman delivered the game-winner with just over three minutes left in regulation.
Head coach Kris Knoblauch praised his team’s resilience but emphasized the importance of starting stronger in Game 2. Despite their historic streak of comeback wins, Knoblauch admitted that a quicker start would be ideal. “We’d love to get the first goal and cruise from there,” he said, although he acknowledged the Oilers’ strength in third-period play as a major advantage.
With Game 1’s win, Edmonton has already stolen home-ice advantage, giving them confidence as they head back to Alberta for Games 3 and 4. Hyman noted that the Game 1 victory puts the Golden Knights on their heels, giving the Oilers a prime opportunity to seize control of the series.
Prediction and Final Score
Vegas is too experienced and resilient to roll over after a tough Game 1 loss. Expect the Golden Knights to make the necessary adjustments, tighten up defensively, and apply more consistent pressure on Edmonton’s defense. The Oilers have proven they can rally, but Vegas has a strong track record of bouncing back when pushed.
Final Score Prediction: Golden Knights 4, Oilers 2
Best Bet: Vegas ML (-138)
Total: Under 6.5 (-108)
Look for Vegas cover the moneyline, with the game potentially hitting the Under 6.5, as both teams focus on tightening up defensively.
- NHL Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
