Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the NHL match.
Both clubs face a disparity between their top lines and the rest, largely due to a lack of quality depth—more accurately, a chasm. However, the Edmonton Oilers find it easier to bridge this gap because many players are eager to be traded to a contender, unlike moving to the remote Manitoba region.
Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers almost won the Stanley Cup, but it's uncertain whether they can reach those heights again. Crucially, they extended Leon Draisaitl's contract, securing him for $14 million. They re-signed many role players but couldn't avoid some losses. The St. Louis Blues matched the Oilers' offer, leading to the departure of 23-year-old winger Dylan Holloway and defenseman Philip Broberg to Missouri. It's unfortunate that Ryan McLeod left for the Buffalo Sabres. On the bright side, Jeff Skinner moved in the opposite direction and could potentially contribute on the second line.
Winnipeg Jets
The Winnipeg Jets are less enticing for potential signings. Although the Jets have qualified for the postseason six out of the last seven times, they've failed to make significant progress; last season, they were eliminated by the Colorado Avalanche despite having a higher seed. Now, Rutger McGroarty, picked 14th overall two years ago, is leaving the Canadian province without having played an NHL game. The 20-year-old prospect was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins at his request. Only four players remain on the team who recorded more than 50 points last season, one of whom is a defenseman. Will they once again rely on low-scoring games due to Connor Hellebuyck's heroics in goal? It's likely he'll seek a trade if this pattern continues.
Edmonton Oilers vs Winnipeg Jets Prediction
The Winnipeg Jets are unlikely to score much on the road. The teams met during this preseason, with the Jets winning 3:2 in overtime. While they could manage a win, as they did last October with a 3:2 victory, they are not expected to score a lot. Connor Hellebuyck, who performs significantly better in the regular season than in the playoffs, might help to contain Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Zach Hyman.
