As the St. Louis Blues (43-29-7) prepare to face the Edmonton Oilers (44-28-5) at Rogers Place on April 9, 2025, both teams are vying for critical points to solidify their playoff positions. The Blues currently hold fourth place in the Central Division with 93 points, while the Oilers sit third in the Pacific Division. This matchup is particularly intriguing given the contrasting styles and recent performances of the two teams.
Team Performance Analysis
The Blues have demonstrated a balanced approach this season, scoring 242 goals and allowing 224, resulting in a +18 goal differential. Their defensive structure has been a cornerstone of their success, with goaltender Jordan Binnington leading the team with 27 wins. Offensively, Jordan Kyrou has been a significant contributor, leading the team with 33 goals, while Robert Thomas has excelled as a playmaker with 55 assists and a total of 76 points.
The Oilers, known for their high-octane offense, have scored 244 goals this season. Leon Draisaitl has been exceptional, leading the team with 52 goals and 106 points, and boasting a +32 rating. Connor McDavid continues to be an elite playmaker with 64 assists. However, the Oilers have faced recent challenges, including a 3-2 loss to the Anaheim Ducks on April 8, where they managed 47 shots but struggled with efficiency.
Special Teams Comparison
Special teams could play a pivotal role in this matchup. The Oilers’ power play operates at a 25.5% success rate, providing them with a clear advantage over the Blues’ 19.7%. However, the Blues have a slightly better penalty kill percentage at 76.5%, compared to the Oilers’ 61.8%.
Coaching Strategies
The Blues underwent a coaching change this season, with Jim Montgomery taking over on November 24, 2024. Montgomery, previously an assistant coach with the Blues, has implemented a structured defensive system that has yielded positive results.
The Oilers, under the guidance of Kris Knoblauch, have emphasized an aggressive offensive strategy, leveraging the talents of Draisaitl and McDavid. However, recent injuries to key players have necessitated adjustments in line combinations and tactics.
Head-to-Head History
In their previous matchup on April 1, 2024, the Blues edged out the Oilers with a 3-2 victory. This history adds an element of rivalry and anticipation to the upcoming game.
Advanced Metrics and Puck Possession
The Oilers excel in shot generation, averaging 33.6 shots on goal per game, ranking third in the league. In contrast, the Blues average 26.9 shots, placing them 27th. Face-off win percentages also favor the Oilers at 54.7%, compared to the Blues’ 48.3%. These metrics suggest that the Oilers may have more puck possession and scoring opportunities during the game.
Rest and Schedule
Both teams are playing on the second night of back-to-back games, which could impact player fatigue and performance. The Oilers’ recent travel and the physical demands of their previous game against the Ducks may influence their energy levels.
Injury Report
The Blues have reported injuries to key players, including defensemen Nick Leddy (lower body) and Torey Krug (ankle), which could impact their defensive depth.
The Oilers are facing significant challenges with injuries to star forwards Leon Draisaitl (undisclosed injury sustained on April 4) and Connor McDavid (lower-body injury). Additionally, Evander Kane (hip) and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (illness) are also listed on the injury report.
Betting Odds and Public Trends
The Oilers are favored at -120, with the Blues at +100. The puck line is set at 1.5, and the total points for the game are set at 5.5. Given the Oilers’ home advantage and offensive capabilities, the odds reflect expectations of a competitive game.
Prediction and Betting Recommendations
Considering the Oilers’ injuries to key players like Draisaitl and McDavid, coupled with the Blues’ solid defensive play and recent momentum, the Blues may have an edge in this matchup.
Predicted Final Score: St. Louis Blues 3, Edmonton Oilers 2
Confidence Level: Medium
Recommended Bet: Moneyline on the St. Louis Blues (+100). The combination of the Oilers’ injury challenges and the Blues’ recent form makes this a value bet.
Player Props: Consider betting on Jordan Kyrou to score a goal, given his leading role in the Blues’ offense.
Key Matchups to Watch:
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Blues’ Defense vs. Oilers’ Offense: The ability of the Blues’ defense to contain the Oilers’ attack, especially with the absence of Draisaitl and McDavid, will be crucial.
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Special Teams Battle: The effectiveness of the Oilers’ power play against the Blues’ penalty kill could significantly influence the game’s outcome.
This late-season contest is poised to be a closely contested battle with playoff implications, offering fans a preview of the intensity expected in the upcoming Stanley Cup playoffs.
