NHL Western Conference Semifinal Playoff Game 3 Preview: Vegas Golden Knights (0-2) vs. Edmonton Oilers (2-0)

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Game Details

  • Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
  • Time: 6:00 PM PT
  • Venue: Rogers Place, Edmonton, AB
  • Broadcast: ESPN, SN, TVAS, CBC
  • Series Status: Edmonton leads 2-0

The Edmonton Oilers and Vegas Golden Knights face off in Game 3 of their Western Conference Semifinals matchup, with the Oilers holding a 2-0 series lead after securing two road victories in Las Vegas. The defending champions, Vegas, now find themselves in a must-win situation as the series shifts to Rogers Place, where Edmonton will look to take full control of the series.

Series Recap & Key Storylines

Oilers Take Commanding 2-0 Lead

Edmonton has been dominant, winning five straight playoff games and showcasing their offensive depth. In Game 2, the Oilers capitalized on Vegas’ defensive lapses, with Leon Draisaitl, Zach Hyman, and Connor Brown each scoring in the third period to secure a 4-2 victory. The Oilers have had 11 different forwards score this postseason, proving their ability to generate offense from multiple lines.

Golden Knights Struggling to Generate Offense

Vegas has struggled to create scoring opportunities, managing only 17 shots on goal in Game 1, despite 58 shot attempts. Edmonton’s defense has been effective in blocking shots and limiting second-chance opportunities. The Golden Knights must find a way to increase their shot accuracy and offensive pressure to avoid falling into a 3-0 hole.

Home-Ice Advantage for Edmonton

The Oilers return to Rogers Place, where they have been dominant all season. The crowd will be electric, and Edmonton will look to use the energy to extend their series lead. Historically, teams that win the first two games of a best-of-seven series when starting on the road win 80% of the time (88-22), putting Vegas in a difficult position.

Key Matchups to Watch

Connor McDavid vs. Jack Eichel

McDavid has been exceptional, leading Edmonton’s offense with nine assists in the playoffs. Eichel, meanwhile, has struggled to make an impact, and Vegas needs him to step up if they hope to turn the series around.

Leon Draisaitl vs. Vegas Defense

Draisaitl has been a force, scoring key goals and creating opportunities for teammates. Vegas must find a way to contain his offensive production, or risk another high-scoring night for Edmonton.

Adin Hill vs. Calvin Pickard

Hill has been solid in net for Vegas, but he needs more support from his defense. Pickard, filling in for Stuart Skinner, has been steady for Edmonton, making key saves to preserve leads.

Game Odds

Vegas Golden Knights    6.5

Edmonton Oilers              – 130

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 9, 2025

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