NHL Odds, Preview, Prediction: Oilers vs Stars (Saturday, February 17)
Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images. Pictured: Tyler Seguin #91 of the Dallas Stars
Oilers vs. Stars Odds
| Oilers Odds | +100 |
| Stars Odds | -120 |
| Over / Under | 6.5 -140 / +120 |
Here's everything you need to know about the Edmonton Oilers vs. Dallas Stars on Saturday, February 17 – our expert NHL prediction and pick.
Today's NHL matinee matchup between the Edmonton Oilers (31-18-1, sixth in the Western Conference) and the Dallas Stars (34-14-6, second in the Western Conference) features two high-flying offenses but also solid defensive play, augmented by the goaltending on both sides.
With the Stars hosting the Oilers this afternoon, the intrigue centers around which team's style will prevail and how the advanced metrics and recent performances can lead to choosing the winning side.
This faceoff features two of the league's most elite teams clashing in a game that very well could be a foreshadow of an upcoming Stanley Cup playoff matchup.
The Oilers' offense is a force to be reckoned with, with the team leading the league in expected goals for (xGF) and high-danger chances created (HDCF), showcasing an exceptional ability to generate and capitalize on quality scoring opportunities.
Edmonton’s 13th-ranked Corsi For (CF) efficiency transcends mere puck possession, highlighting a team that maximizes its scoring chances with precision. This offensive juggernaut, powered by elite talent featuring Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Zach Hyman and Evander Kane, has consistently posed a threat to even the most elite defenses across the league.
Mostly praised for their offensive prowess, Edmonton’s defensive metrics are equally if not more impressive. The Oilers rank second in Corsi Against (CA) and fifth in xG Against (xGA), effectively stifling opposing teams' attempts to mount sustained offensive pressure. Their ability to limit high-danger chances against (HDCA) speaks to a disciplined defensive structure that complements their explosive offense.
Today’s starting goaltender for Edmonton, Calvin Pickard, does not lead the league in many metrics but still provides Edmonton with reliable netminding, crucial for their success.
On the other side, the Stars' offensive metrics reveal a team adept at controlling the game and creating scoring chances themselves, boasting the third-highest CF and ranking seventh in xGF, alongside a sixth-place ranking in creating high-danger chances. This indicates not just a volume of shots but a quality of opportunities that challenges even the best defensive teams.
Dallas’ ability to maintain offensive pressure, coupled with its proficiency in executing on the power play (13th), underscores a versatile and persistent attack that can capitalize on the Oilers’ tendency to play the 11th most minutes on the penalty kill this season.
Defensively, the Stars are just as solid, with their rankings in CA, xGA and HDCA all placing them in the upper echelon of the league at limiting opponents' offensive output. Dallas is a balanced team capable of competing at both ends of the ice.
Despite starting goaltender Jake Oettinger's lower rankings in save percentage and goals saved above expected, the team's overall defensive strategy has effectively shielded him from facing an excessive number of high-quality shots, a testament to Dallas's comprehensive team defense.
This team effort will be on full display today as they face the most dangerous offense in the NHL.
(NHL bettors: Get the latest news about the launch of online North Carolina sports betting.)
Oilers vs. Stars
Betting Pick & Prediction
While the Oilers boast the league's top offense, the Stars' balanced approach to both offense and defense, coupled with their ability to control the puck and generate scoring chances, positions them well to capitalize on any lapses in the Oilers' play – especially on the man advantage.
Furthermore, the Stars' solid defensive play and ability to limit high-danger chances could mitigate the Oilers' offensive threat, even considering Edmonton's efficiency in creating quality opportunities.
The decision to back the Stars is also influenced by their performance at home (17-8-2), where they have shown the ability to elevate their game, a crucial factor given the Oilers' prowess. Additionally, Edmonton’s mediocre road performances (14-12) compared to their home dominance (17-6-1) shows a team that can be exploited by elite opponents.
Given the breakdown of each team's offensive and defensive capabilities, the Dallas Stars present the best bet for tonight's game. You can find the Stars widely available at -125 odds – and even -121 at BetRivers. But we'll take the stray -115 available at Hard Rock Sportsbook for our official play.
Back the Stars in today’s marquee matchup between two of the best teams in the NHL and expect a 4-3 final.
Pick: Dallas Stars ML (-115 at Hard Rock)
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