Edmonton Oilers vs Tampa Bay Lightning Picks and Predictions December 10th 2024

Oilers Finding Stability in Goal

Edmonton’s Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard have provided steady goaltending during a crucial stretch of the season. Skinner, in particular, has been a standout, posting a 3-1-0 record over his past four games with a stellar 1.52 goals-against average (GAA) and .945 save percentage.

After a challenging end to last season — conceding the decisive goal in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final — Skinner has bounced back with resilience. Despite not being selected for Canada’s 4 Nations Face-Off roster, he remains focused on contributing to the Oilers’ success.

“He’s been outstanding,” Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch said. “Our goaltenders, Skinner and Pickard, have often been better than the opposing goalie, and that’s been a difference-maker.”

The Oilers have been solid in recent weeks, winning six of their past eight games, including a 4-2 victory over the St. Louis Blues on Saturday.

Lightning Bolstered by Point’s Hot Streak

The Tampa Bay Lightning started their four-game road trip with a 4-2 victory over the Vancouver Canucks on Sunday. Brayden Point delivered an electric performance with two goals and two assists, earning him the NHL’s Second Star of the Week honors.

Point has been dominant, notching back-to-back four-point games and reaching milestones such as 300 career assists. He also sits one goal shy of 100 career power-play goals, a testament to his offensive prowess.

Nikita Kucherov’s return to the lineup after a two-game absence (undisclosed injury) added another layer of firepower, as he tallied a goal and two assists against Vancouver.

However, Lightning coach Jon Cooper emphasized the need for a better start against the Oilers after a lackluster first period against the Canucks.

“Not pleased with our effort level,” Cooper said. “We lost every battle. I think we were lucky to be down just 1-0 after the first. They pushed back in the second, but we can’t afford slow starts.”

The Lightning might be without center Anthony Cirelli, who sustained an apparent injury on Sunday and missed Monday’s practice.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl vs. Lightning Defense: The Oilers’ dynamic duo remains a constant threat. Tampa Bay’s defense, anchored by Victor Hedman, will need to contain their creativity and speed.
• Brayden Point and Nikita Kucherov vs. Stuart Skinner: Point and Kucherov have been firing on all cylinders. Skinner will have to stay sharp to neutralize their scoring opportunities.
• Special Teams Battle: Tampa Bay boasts a lethal power play led by Point and Kucherov. Edmonton’s penalty kill will need to step up to keep the game close.

What’s at Stake?

• For Edmonton: A win would solidify their recent surge and provide further confidence in their goaltending.
• For Tampa Bay: Continuing their road trip with a victory would showcase their resilience and ability to overcome injuries.

Check out NHL Metropolitan Division Odds & Predictions for detailed insights and analysis.

Prediction

Both teams bring elite talent and recent momentum, but Edmonton’s goaltending edge and home-ice advantage may tilt the scales in their favor. Expect a close, high-scoring affair with special teams playing a decisive role.

Final Score Prediction: Oilers 4, Lightning 3 (OT)