Oilers vs Devils: NHL Prediction & Odds for Thursday's Matchup - Starting Goalies Revealed
Hockey player skating in white jersey
The Edmonton Oilers (-155) face the New Jersey Devils (+130) tonight at 7:30pm ET at the Prudential Center. Despite the Oilers' recent struggles (losing 7 of their last 10), they remain favorites against a shorthanded Devils team.
The Devils won the only previous matchup this season 3-0, effectively neutralizing Edmonton's high-powered offense. New Jersey's defensive prowess ranks impressive: 2nd in goals against, 4th in penalty kill percentage, and 4th in shots against per game.
Key Stats:
- Oilers: 37-23-4, NHL-worst 20-44 against spread
- Devils: 35-25-6, won last two games (8-4 combined score)
- Total: 5.5 goals
Notable Injuries:
- Devils: Jack Hughes (season-ending), Dougie Hamilton (one month)
Expected Starting Goalies:
- Oilers: Stuart Skinner (struggling post-break, 3.10 road GAA)
- Devils: Jacob Markstrom (6th in NHL GAA, .906 save percentage)
Despite Edmonton's star power with McDavid and NHL scoring leader Draisaitl (15-game point streak), the Devils' defensive system and superior goaltending make them the value play. New Jersey's ability to control pace and capitalize on aggressive opponents, combined with Edmonton's road struggles (lost 5 of last 6), suggests an upset is likely.
Prediction: New Jersey Devils Moneyline (+130)
The Devils' recent momentum and defensive structure, plus Markstrom's solid form, should overcome Edmonton's offensive firepower. Expect New Jersey to replicate their previous success against the Oilers with another disciplined, defensive performance.