NHLI via Getty Images
At this time last year, it felt like a foregone conclusion that the Edmonton Oilers would roll past the Los Angeles Kings in Round 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
At this time two years ago, it felt like that, too. At this time three years ago, well, you get the point.
But things feel different this spring. The Oilers endured an uneven season and have serious cracks on their roster, while the Kings have been one of the most consistent outfits in the NHL this season.
If the Kings are to avoid getting eliminated by Edmonton for the fourth year running, they’ll need to get off on the right foot in Game 1 on Monday night.
BetMGM bonus code POSTBET the Stanley Cup Playoffs
Use BetMGM bonus code POSTBET to get your first bet back in bonus bets if your first bet doesn’t win, up to $1,500.
Oilers vs. Kings Game 1 betting preview
One of the main criticisms of the Oilers over the past few seasons has been that the team is too reliant on Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, and their lack of depth will keep them from winning the Stanley Cup.
Edmonton seemed to have that issue resolved last season and got within one game of hoisting Lord Stanley, but a turbulent offseason put the Oilers close to square one when it came to depth.
Jeff Skinner, Viktor Arvidsson, Vasily Podkolzin, and Kasperi Kapanen struggled to replicate what Edmonton lost up front when Warren Foegele, Ryan McLeod, and Dylan Holloway departed, and the defense had a similar issue replacing Philip Broberg.
Get the lowdown on the Best USA Sports Betting Sites and Apps
- Check out the best sports betting sites
- Download the best sports betting app
The other common critique of the Oilers was that their goaltending simply wasn’t good enough. Jeff Skinner had a strong postseason in 2023-24, but he’s been below-average this season, and the Oilers don’t have a great option behind him.
Calvin Pickard can do a job in a pinch, but asking more than that is not ideal.
Oilers vs. Kings Game 1 pick
While there are more questions than answers in the Edmonton camp, the Kings are the opposite.
Not only is Los Angeles one of the best defensive teams in the NHL, but it is also one of the deepest. The Kings also have a massive edge in goal with Darcy Kuemper coming off a terrific season in Hollywood.
There’s always the chance that McDavid and Draisaitl wreck a game, but that’s really Edmonton’s only viable path to success in this game and series.
There is plenty of room left on the Kings’ bandwagon for Game 1 and beyond.
The Play: Kings -120 (BetMGM)
Why Trust New York Post Betting
Michael Leboff is a long-suffering Islanders fan, but a long-profiting sports bettor with 10 years of experience in the gambling industry. He loves using game theory to help punters win bracket pools, find long shots, and learn how to beat the market in mainstream and niche sports.
21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. AZ, CO, DC, IA, IL, IN, LA, KS, KY, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY. Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA). Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS, NV), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA). Participant must complete the Wagering. Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. US Promotional Offers Not Available in MS, NY, ON, or PR. Visit BetMGM.com for Terms & Conditions.