Oilers vs Kings Picks and Prediction – 4/30/2025

The Edmonton Oilers (48-29-5) and Los Angeles Kings (48-25-9) meet at Crypto.com Arena on April 29th with the series tied 2-2. Edmonton grabbed a thrilling 4-3 OT win last time, while Los Angeles had previously dropped a 7-4 decision in Game 3. Both teams have split home-ice results so far, setting up a huge Game 5 matchup to determine control of this tight first-round series. Hit the ice running with our NHL picks.

Edmonton comes into this game carrying a ton of momentum after winning back-to-back games at home. Leon Draisaitl has been the spark, posting 106 points this season with 52 goals, while Connor McDavid continues to feed him, racking up 74 assists. The Oilers' offense has looked sharp, averaging 3.16 goals per game and firing 32.0 shots on net per game. 

Stuart Skinner has had ups and downs, holding a 2.81 goals-against average and a .896 save percentage, while Calvin Pickard provides some backup stability with a 2.71 GAA. The power play remains a strength at 23.7%, but injuries on defense, including Mattias Ekholm being out until May 5, could leave Edmonton exposed.

Los Angeles has to regroup fast after blowing two chances to take a 3-1 series lead. Adrian Kempe has been the offensive driver with 73 points, notching 35 goals, while Anze Kopitar leads the team with 46 assists. The Kings' defense has been stingy all year, allowing just 2.48 goals per game and giving up only 25.5 shots per game. 

Darcy Kuemper remains rock-solid in goal with a fantastic 2.02 GAA and a .922 save percentage, key reasons why Los Angeles dominated at home with a 31-6-4 record. The penalty kill operates at 81.4%, and while Tanner Jeannot remains sidelined, the Kings' overall structure makes them hard to break down at Crypto.com Arena.

The Kings have been a juggernaut at home all season, and with Darcy Kuemper locked in, Los Angeles should bounce back. Edmonton’s defense is missing Mattias Ekholm, which will be a real issue against a team that protects its goalie well. With the Kings allowing just 2.48 goals per game and Kuemper boasting a .922 save percentage, Los Angeles should capitalize and take control of the series. Final Score Prediction: Los Angeles Kings wins 4-2.