NHL Western Conference Semifinal Game 2 Preview: Edmonton Oilers (1-0) vs. Vegas Golden Knights (0-1)

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Vegas Golden Knights logo

On May 9, 2025, the Edmonton Oilers will face the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 2 of their Western Conference Second Round series at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Oilers secured a 4-2 comeback victory in Game 1, setting an NHL playoff record with their fifth consecutive comeback win in a single postseason. Vegas will look to respond and even the series before heading to Edmonton.

Series Overview

TeamSeedRegular Season RecordPlayoff RecordLast 5 Games
Edmonton Oilers249-27-65-2W-W-W-W-W
Vegas Golden Knights347-30-54-3L-W-W-W-W

Edmonton finished second in the Pacific Division, while Vegas claimed the third seed. The teams split their four regular-season meetings, each winning twice.

Key Players to Watch

  • Edmonton Oilers
    • Connor McDavid – Leads the playoffs with 10 assists, marking his fourth consecutive postseason with double-digit assists.
    • Leon Draisaitl – Scored a crucial third-period goal in Game 1, continuing his dominance against Vegas.
    • Zach Hyman – Delivered the game-winning goal in Game 1, showcasing his clutch scoring ability.
  • Vegas Golden Knights
  • Mark Stone – Scored both of Vegas’ goals in Game 1, extending his goal streak to three games.
  • Jack Eichel – A key playmaker, expected to drive Vegas’ offensive response.
  • Adin Hill – Made 24 saves in Game 1, but struggled against Edmonton’s relentless attack.

Tactical Breakdown

  • Edmonton’s Approach: The Oilers will aim to control possession, utilizing their speed and offensive depth. Their ability to capitalize on turnovers will be key.
  • Vegas’ Strategy: The Golden Knights will look to generate offense through Stone and Eichel, relying on their physical play and defensive structure. Expect them to push the pace early.

Game Details

  • Date: May 9, 2025
  • Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, NV
  • Puck Drop: 9:30 PM EST
  • Broadcast: ESPN, Sportsnet, TVAS

With Edmonton holding a 1-0 series lead, Vegas must adjust defensively and find offensive rhythm to avoid falling into a 0-2 hole before heading to Rogers Place. Will the Oilers continue their dominant run, or will the Golden Knights respond?

Game Odds

Edmonton Oilers              6.5

Vegas Golden Knights    – 142

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, May 7, 2025

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