NHL odds, preview, prediction: Kings vs. Oilers Game 1 for Monday 4/22

Kings vs. Oilers Odds

Monday, April 22, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN2

Odds via bet365. Get up-to-the-minute NHL odds here.

Los Angeles Kings

The Kings' postseason berth was clinched on the strength of solid defensive play, and that's reflected across its recent sample. The Kings ended the campaign with the fourth fewest high-danger and scoring chances allowed. Moreover, they tightened that standard over the final few weeks of the season. Over their past five games, no opponent attempted more than eight high-danger chances, with a minuscule average of 6.2.

However, the more concerning trend is the recent downturn between the pipes. Despite facing less-than-stellar opponents, Kings' netminders posted below-average save percentages in three of those five contests. Against bottom feeders like the Chicago Blackhawks, Anaheim Ducks and Calgary Flames, Cam Talbot and David Rittich combined for a 90.0% save percentage across the five-game sample.

Worse, Talbot, the projected starter in Game 1, has been the worst of the two goalies over that stretch. The veteran netminder has stopped just 87.9% of shots over his past four starts. That doesn't bode well for the Kings as they get ready to defend against the NHL's most prominent attack.

Compounding those issues are the Kings' lackluster offensive metrics. Los Angeles hasn't tallied more than two goals at 5-on-5 in any of its past five outings, accumulating a disastrous 6.7% shooting percentage in the process. If one or the other was working, the Kings might have a chance. But with diminished output and floundering goaltending, the Kings could struggle in this series.

Edmonton Oilers

Losers of four of their past five, the public has obviously lost faith in the Oilers. Typically hovering above the -200 range when fully healthy and at home, bettors have taken a stance against Connor McDavid and company on Monday night. Alas, that position is on shaky ground, as the Oilers are progression candidates heading into the postseason.

Their record doesn't reflect the on-ice dominance the Oilers have exhibited over their recent sample. The Pacific Division runner-ups have outplayed their opponents in six straight, exceeding the 60.0% threshold in five of those outings. Cumulatively, Edmonton has posted a 61.3% expected goals-for rating, outplaying the likes of the Vancouver Canucks, Vegas Golden Knights and Colorado Avalanche.

Clearly, Edmonton deserves more than the two wins it has over its past six games. The Oilers should start to see the ice tilt in their direction as their PDO climbs back up toward average. The Oilers' shooting and save percentages have fallen below 1.000 in four of six outings, totaling .993 across the sample. With McDavid seemingly back to 100% and the home faithful at their back, we should see the best the Oilers have to offer in the series opener. 

Kings vs. Oilers

Betting Pick & Prediction

Neither the Kings nor Oilers looked exceptional leading up to the playoffs, but there's a clear advantage in backing Edmonton. The Oilers continue to outproduce their opponents, putting together their best efforts of the season over the past couple of weeks.

Although the Kings have a few wins to their credit, they've put up some truly concerning performances against the worst teams in the league.

With that, we're taking a principled stand on the Oilers moneyline. Bettors might come to their senses as we approach puck drop, and the price should continue to inflate on the hosts. Still, anything less than -200 is worth playing.

Pick: Oilers -160 (PointsBet)