- What: NHL Western Conference Playoffs First Round Game 1
- When: April 21, 2025
- Who: Edmonton Oilers vs. LA Kings
- Time: 7:00 p.m. PST
- Where: Crypto.com Arena (Los Angeles, CA)
For the fourth consecutive year, the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings will meet in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The Oilers have won the previous three encounters, but this might be the year the Kings reclaim their crown.
Los Angeles enters the series as a slight favorite, aiming to make a strong statement when the series commences tonight at Crypto.com Arena. The puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. PST.
Although Edmonton has sent Los Angeles packing in their previous playoff encounters, Kings fans have renewed hope that this time could be different, especially since they enjoy a home-ice advantage. This factor was missing in those earlier playoff series.
The Kings excelled at home this season, boasting an impressive record of 31-6-4, which contrasts sharply with their 17-19-5 performance on the road.
Additionally, the timing couldn’t be better for the Kings. Edmonton will face a significant setback without their key defenseman, Mattias Ekholm, who is sidelined for the entire series.
While superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, along with top winger Zach Hyman, are expected to play, their recent injuries might affect their performance levels.
Furthermore, Los Angeles played well against Edmonton during the regular season, winning three of their four matchups and outscoring the Oilers 12-4.
Goalie Darcy Kuemper delivered stellar performances in the last two meetings earlier this month, creating a notable advantage for the Kings over Stuart Skinner, who has seen limited action recently due to a head injury.
It may seem daunting to bet against last year’s Western Conference champions in their playoff opener, particularly given their past dominance over the Kings.
However, that history is already considered in the odds, which prevents the Kings from being favored as heavily as they might deserve.
There’s value in backing Los Angeles at -130 and starting the series with a 1-0 lead.
Best Bet: LA Kings Money Line at -130 odds
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Tony Reyes is a sports betting analyst and reporter for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X @TonyParlay.
