Edmonton Oilers vs Boston Bruins Picks and Predictions December 19th 2024

Game Information

Broadcast: ESPN+

Date: Thursday, December 19, 2024

Time: 9:00 PM EST

Location: Rogers Place, Edmonton, Alberta

Bruins Riding Momentum After Comeback Win

The Boston Bruins (19-8-3) are set to cap their five-game Western Conference road swing with a showdown against the Edmonton Oilers (18-9-2) on Thursday night. After dropping the first two games of the trip, the Bruins rebounded with consecutive victories, including an electrifying 4-3 overtime win against the Calgary Flames on Tuesday.

Boston’s late-game resilience was on full display in Calgary as they erased a two-goal deficit with third-period goals from Morgan Geekie and Marc McLaughlin before David Pastrnak netted the game-winner in overtime.

Depth Stepping Up

Interim head coach Joe Sacco praised the team’s grit and determination, especially contributions from less-heralded players like Geekie and McLaughlin. McLaughlin, a 25-year-old Massachusetts native, has scored in back-to-back games, showcasing the effort Sacco has been emphasizing.

“This is a second-effort league,” Sacco said. “Marc’s goal was a perfect example of that—crashing the net and staying hungry for the rebound.”

Stars in the Spotlight

David Pastrnak, the Bruins’ leading scorer, remains a game-changer in clutch moments. His overtime goal against Calgary marked Boston’s fourth win in five games decided by one or two goals.

“Just give the puck to 88 or 63 (Brad Marchand), and then pray,” forward Nikita Zadorov joked, highlighting the team’s reliance on its stars in crucial situations.

Oilers Look to Bounce Back

The Edmonton Oilers enter the contest looking to rebound from a rare misstep. After winning five straight and eight of their last nine, the Oilers fell 6-5 to the Florida Panthers on Monday, marking their first loss since Dec. 3.

Injury Updates: Hyman and McDavid Expected to Play

The Oilers received good news as Zach Hyman and Connor McDavid both appear ready for action despite recent scares. Hyman suffered a broken nose after being struck by an Evan Bouchard shot, while McDavid had a collision with teammate Darnell Nurse during practice on Tuesday.

“You don’t want to see those things happen, but they’re part of the game,” said Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch. “Both players are competitive and ready to go.”

Viktor Arvidsson’s Potential Return

Forward Viktor Arvidsson, who has missed 15 games with an undisclosed injury, could make his return against Boston. Knoblauch hinted at the impact Arvidsson could bring:

“I thought he was the best player on the ice during practice. It’s one thing to look good in practice, but we’ll ease him back into game situations.”

Discover detailed insights in NHL Atlantic Division Odds & Predictions.

Key Matchups to Watch

Pastrnak vs. McDavid

Two of the NHL’s brightest stars, David Pastrnak and Connor McDavid, headline this game. Both players have the ability to tilt the ice in their favor, with Pastrnak excelling in clutch situations and McDavid leading the league in playmaking and speed.

Goalie Duel

Boston’s Linus Ullmark and Edmonton’s Stuart Skinner will likely be tasked with stopping these high-powered offenses. The Bruins’ defense has been strong on this trip, allowing two or fewer goals in three of four games. Meanwhile, the Oilers will aim to tighten up defensively after allowing six goals to Florida.