The Edmonton Oilers (17-14-2) have lost as favorites in three straight games but this time will be slight underdogs against the Dallas Stars (19-8-6). Read on for our Oilers-Stars picks and predictions.
While losing three straight games 4-3 may be considered unfortunate, the Oilers do not have strong competition as an excuse. They played two .500 teams in the St. Louis Blues and the Nashville Predators, plus the Anaheim Ducks who have the second-fewest points in the NHL.
The Stars meanwhile have lost in regulation only once over their past seven games. Goaltender Jake Oettinger has been outstanding, helping the team rank seventh in goals allowed compared to the Oilers who rank 23rd. Jack Campbell has been a disaster for Edmonton this season, but Stuart Skinner has taken over the starting role and boasts a 2.83 GAA.
When it comes to underlying statistics, it is difficult to argue that the Stars have been a much more fortunate team. They rank fifth in goal differential above expected compared to the Oilers who rank in the bottom five.