LiontipsEdmonton vs Los Angeles. Prediction and Betting Tips for NHL playoffs (May 5, 2022).
Command Analysis
Edmonton qualified for the playoffs from 5th place in the Western Conference. The Oilers showed solid results throughout the regular season. However, the team almost always crumbles under pressure in the playoffs. For instance, last year, Edmonton lost four straight games to Winnipeg in the round of 16, despite being the clear favorite.
We might see something similar this year, unless the team wakes up. The Oilers lost to Los Angeles in the opening game (3:4), conceding the game-breaker just minutes before the final siren. Dave Tippett's team converted two of the five power play opportunities, but made too many mistakes in their zone, which lead to the defeat.
Los Angeles didn't show anything exceptional in the regular season. The team doesn't have many big stars, however, they are hard-working and determined, which in the end helped them reach the playoffs.
In the first game, Jonathan Quick had a lot of work - he made a total of 36 saves. The team played a very open game and adapted to the Oilers' style. We expect the Kings to be more careful on defense when they play away from home, though.
Trends
СтавкаLos Angeles IT under 2.5 goals
The Kings scored fewer than 3 goals in 2 of their last 4 games against the Oilerss.
Ставка1st period: total over 1.5 goals
In the last game, 3 goals were scored in the first period.
Tip and bets
Edmonton are a better team on paper and are the favorites in this match. However, they need to overcome their psychological issues and get in the right mindset. Los Angeles are inconsistent and haven't beaten the Oilers in two games in a row in a long time, plus they aren't very confident away from home. We will be backing the hosts in this game.
Our prediction - Edmonton to win
The weren't so many dangerous attacks in the first game. The teams tried to be careful on defense, but still scored seven goals. Nevertheless, we do not expect a barnburner in the second game - the opponents didn't overcome the total in most of their previous meetings.
Second bet - total under 6.5 goals
