Welcome back to another NHL Predictions, the Playoffs Edition. Each day, our writers here at Last Word on Hockey look at the games and give in-depth analysis. Our team breaks down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then makes predictions based on how they might play out. For this edition, we will look at the Vegas Golden Knights taking on the Edmonton Oilers. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs.
NHL Predictions for the Western Conference Second Round, Game 3
Vegas Golden Knights vs Edmonton Oilers
Series: Golden Knights 0 – 2 Oilers
Time: 9:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
TV: TNT, truTV, MAX, CBC, SN, TVAS
The Edmonton Oilers return home with a 2–0 series lead after a thrilling 5–4 overtime victory in Game 2. Leon Draisaitl netted the game-winner at 15:20 of the extra frame, assisted by Connor McDavid, who made a brilliant play, dancing around Jack Eichel, to set up the goal. The Oilers’ depth was on full display, with the fourth line contributing two crucial goals in the second period to erase a 2–1 deficit.
For the Golden Knights, Victor Olofsson tallied two power play goals, and Eichel added three assists. However, Vegas was left frustrated by a controversial non-call in overtime when Viktor Arvidsson‘s stick caused Brayden McNabb to crash into the boards, leading to an injury. Shortly after, Draisaitl scored the game winner.
Vegas Golden Knights Pressed for a Response
The Golden Knights aren’t panicking, but they are on the ropes. A second straight blown lead, this time in overtime, leaves them trailing 2–0 in the series heading into a hostile environment in Edmonton, Alberta. Game 2 featured standout efforts from Victor Olofsson, who scored twice on the power play, and Jack Eichel, who tallied three assists. But Vegas generated little five-on-five offence after the first period and struggled to handle the Oilers’ depth. Making matters worse, veteran defenceman Brayden McNabb left the game after a controversial missed call involving Viktor Arvidsson, and his status for Game 3 is uncertain. If he can’t go, Vegas will be even thinner on the backend. To flip the script, the Golden Knights need more from their secondary scorers and a cleaner transition game. They’ve been here before, but Edmonton is not the type of team to spot a 3–0 lead to.
Edmonton Oilers Depth Delivering and Stars Shining
For the second straight game, the Edmonton Oilers proved they’re more than just their top line. After falling behind 2–1 in the second period of Game 2, the fourth line turned the tide, goals from Mattias Janmark and Derek Ryan sparked a rally that eventually led to a 5–4 overtime win. That balanced scoring has been Edmonton’s biggest difference-maker this postseason. Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl still drive the offence, with both picking up two points in Game 2, including the OT winner from Draisaitl off a brilliant McDavid feed. But it’s the stability down the lineup and Calvin Pickard’s reliable goaltending that make this team feel different than past versions. Pickard stopped 28 shots and gave Edmonton the edge they needed. With the Oilers now riding a six-game win streak and returning home to Rogers Place, they’re in full control of the series, but they know the job’s not done yet.
NHL Prediction for Game 3
Game 3 often sets the tone for how a series ends, and right now, all signs point to Edmonton tightening its grip. They’ve won six straight playoff games and, more importantly, have trailed in five of them, yet come back every time. This isn’t just about McDavid and Draisaitl anymore. The Oilers are winning the depth battle, the goaltending matchup, and the special teams war. Vegas is still dangerous and will come out swinging, especially if their leadership group can spark a push early. But unless the Golden Knights find answers at five-on-five and limit Edmonton’s transition speed, this series may soon be out of reach. Edmonton has both the confidence and the crowd to ride the wave.
Prediction: Oilers win 6-4.
Prop Bets of the Night
We round out NHL Predictions with some prop bets of the night. Plus odds for Leon Draisaitl anytime goal (+100) are great value, given his clutch performance in Game 2. Also consider Corey Perry anytime goal while he is playing with McDavid and Draisaitl (+300). Lastly, take a look at Jack Eichel over 1.5 points (+175), as he’ll be looking to bounce back after how game two ended. (Postseason Record: 13-13)
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Main Photo Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
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