The Edmonton Oilers are looking to secure a 2-0 lead in the Stanley Cup final series as they host the Florida Panthers in Game 2 on Friday. Leon Draisaitl played a key role in Edmonton’s narrow 4-3 win in Game 1 on Wednesday, scoring the decisive goal with just 31 seconds remaining during a power play. The puck drops at 8 p.m. at Rogers Place in Edmonton for the upcoming game.
According to the latest odds, Edmonton is favored with a money line of -129, while Florida is the underdog at +109. The over/under is set at 6.5, with the Oilers favored by -1.5 on the puck line at +187. Before placing any bets, fans are encouraged to review NHL predictions and prop bets from Sportsline’s models for Game 2.
The Sportsline Projection model, which simulates NHL games 10,000 times, has yielded strong returns so far this playoff season, with over $1,600 in winnings on a $100 stake. The model’s top picks for this game include the Panthers on the puck line at +1.5 (-228) and under 6.5 goals (-125).
The model expects Game 2 to follow the close scoring pattern that has defined recent matchups between these teams, including last year’s Game 7 in the Stanley Cup final. Defensive play is projected to improve in this game, which could limit scoring. Florida’s Sergei Bobrovsky was outstanding in Game 1, stopping 42 shots, and the Oilers will need to match this level of defense to support goaltender Stuart Skinner.
For those looking to bet, under 6.5 goals is available at -125 with BETMGM Sportsbook, which also offers a promo for new users that includes a bonus bet of up to $1,500 if the first bet loses. Additional NHL picks for the Panthers vs. Oilers Game 2 can be found through Sportsline’s model predictions.
Fan Take: This series is shaping up to be a thrilling battle of skill and strategy, highlighting the intensity and unpredictability that make hockey so exciting. For fans, these close games not only showcase top-tier talent but also emphasize how crucial defensive prowess and goaltending are to winning championships.