The Battle of Alberta concludes Saturday’s NHL slate as the Calgary Flames host the Edmonton Oilers. NHL odds have Edmonton as a moderate –165 favorite while the total sits at 6.5.
We saw a high-scoring affair the last time these two teams squared off in February, with Calgary securing a 6-3 victory. There have now been seven or more total goals scored in five of the past eight meetings between these two clubs.
Will we see another high-scoring game, or can the goaltending step up? Find out in my free NHL picks for Oilers vs. Flames on Saturday, April 6.
Oilers vs Flames odds
Oilers vs Flames predictions
It is no secret that Edmonton possesses one of the best offenses in hockey, as it annually has during the Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl era. This season, it ranks in the top four of the league in goals scored per game, shots on goal per game and power play percentage.
This success is due to the team’s tremendous ability to generate high-danger scoring chances, ranking first in expected goals per 60 minutes (xGF/60). The Oilers’ offensive domination is likely to continue against Calgary, a team that has struggled in its own end.
Entering this matchup, the Flames rank 22nd in goals allowed per game. Their problem is that they surrender a ton of quality shots, ranking in the bottom half of the league in shots on goal per game and expected goals against per 60 minutes (xGA/60).
Backing up this defense is goaltender Jacob Markstrom, who has recently struggled playing behind this poor blue line. Markstrom has now allowed three or more goals in seven of his past eight starts, going 3-5 over that stretch with a fade-worthy .868 SV% and 3.55 GAA.
These woes are likely to continue against Edmonton, a team Markstrom has mightily struggled against over the past few years. Dating back to February of 2021, he’s 6-14 with a .876 SV% and 3.75 GAA over his past 20 starts against the Oilers.
However, I don’t necessarily trust Calvin Pickard, who is slated to start across the ice for Edmonton, either. He’s now allowed four or more goals in two of his past three starts, posting a mere .855 SV% over that stretch.
My best bet: Over 6.5 (-105 at SIA)
Oilers vs Flames same-game parlay
Over 6.5
Oilers moneyline
Combining the Oilers’ moneyline with the Over is a way to play the favorite at plus-money. Whenever there’s an offensive shootout, the edge often goes to Edmonton.
On top of that, the Oilers are just the stronger team across the board as they are better offensively, defensively, on special teams and at the faceoff circle. Therefore, it’s not shocking that they have won eight of the past 10 meetings between these two teams.
The one advantage for Calgary is that it’s on home ice. However, this season, Edmonton possesses a better road win percentage than the Flames’ home win percentage.
Learn how to bet a same-game parlay with these helpful tips and strategies.
Welcome to Sports Interaction 2.0
Looking to bet on some NHL action? Join Sports Interaction, the best in Canada for new bettors, with a brand-new platform featuring same-game parlays, increased prop markets, and more!
Oilers vs Flames moneyline and Over/Under analysis
- Edmonton opened as a –165 favorite and remains at that price as of Saturday morning.
- I think the market will only push this line further, especially after the Oilers’ commanding win over Colorado on Friday.
- The total opened at 6.5 and also remains at that number as of Saturday morning.
- With the amount of firepower in this matchup, this number is far more likely to move to seven than it is to six, so jump early if you like the Over.
Oilers vs Flames betting trend to know
The Over is 6-2-1 over Calgary’s past nine games. Find more NHL betting trends for Oilers vs. Flames.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Covers may receive advertising commissions for visits to a sportsbook or betting site.
Oilers vs Flames game info
| Location: | Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary, AB |
| Date: | Saturday, April 6, 2024 |
| Puck drop: | 10:00 p.m. ET |
| TV: | SN, CBC |
Oilers vs Flames latest injuries
Stay updated with the latest picks, odds, and news! Tap the 
to add us to your favorites on Google News to never miss a story.
