Nashville Predators vs Edmonton Oilers Picks and Predictions October 31st 2024

Predators Eye Redemption as Oilers Face Life Without Connor McDavid

The Nashville Predators aim to capitalize on their recent momentum as they host an Edmonton Oilers team missing superstar Connor McDavid on Thursday. The Oilers, who defeated Nashville 4-2 in their previous meeting this season, are tasked with adjusting their game plan after McDavid suffered an ankle injury that will sideline him for 2-3 weeks.

Oilers Brace for Life Without McDavid

McDavid’s absence is a significant blow to Edmonton, as the three-time Hart Trophy winner led the team with 10 points alongside Leon Draisaitl. Head coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledged the impact, stating, “It’s tough any time you are playing without your best player.” The Oilers now rely on Draisaitl, who leads the team with six goals, to carry the offensive load, while other players, such as Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, will need to step up and contribute. Nugent-Hopkins, with just four points this season, emphasized the importance of rising to the challenge: “We’ve got to do a better job of stepping up when a guy like [McDavid] goes down.”

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Edmonton struggled without McDavid in their most recent game, suffering a 6-1 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Mattias Ekholm scored Edmonton’s lone goal in that contest, highlighting the team’s need for scoring depth during McDavid’s absence.

Predators Find Their Footing After Rocky Start

The Predators endured a tough opening stretch, beginning the season 0-5-0 while being outscored 23-10. However, they have since found their form, posting a 3-0-1 record and outscoring opponents 13-8. Nashville fought back from a 2-0 deficit against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Monday before losing 3-2 in overtime. Predators coach Andrew Brunette praised his team’s resilience, saying, “I thought we did a good job just trying to stay in the moment.”

Steven Stamkos, Nashville’s high-profile acquisition, recorded two assists in his return to Tampa Bay, his longtime home, and is adjusting to his new role with the Predators. Stamkos, who has tallied only three points this season, remains optimistic about his transition, noting, “It takes time… certainly, it’s been an adjustment period.”

Key Matchups and Players to Watch

• Leon Draisaitl vs. Nashville Defense: Draisaitl has been a thorn in the Predators’ side throughout his career, amassing 25 goals and 18 assists in 27 games against Nashville. With McDavid out, expect Draisaitl to take on an even more prominent role.
• Filip Forsberg’s Offensive Spark: Forsberg has a history of success against Edmonton, with 13 goals and 12 assists in 26 career games. He will be essential in driving Nashville’s attack as they seek redemption from their October loss to the Oilers.
• Goaltending Duel: Nashville’s Juuse Saros (2.75 GAA) was solid in their previous game against Edmonton, recording 32 saves. With Saros expected in net, the Predators hope he can contain Edmonton’s offensive push. Edmonton’s Calvin Pickard could get the nod, having made a strong 25-save showing against Nashville earlier this season. However, backup Stuart Skinner has struggled on the road, surrendering nine goals in two away starts this season.

Game Outlook

Thursday’s contest presents an opportunity for Nashville to continue their resurgence as they face a McDavid-less Edmonton team. While Draisaitl poses a formidable threat, the Predators have the benefit of home ice and renewed confidence after recent wins. For the Oilers, success will hinge on their ability to compensate for McDavid’s absence and maintain offensive pressure.

With the Predators hoping to prove their early-season struggles are behind them, this matchup could serve as a pivotal test for both teams looking to solidify their standings in the Western Conference.