The Edmonton Oilers are set to face off against the Chicago Blackhawks at United Center on January 12, promising an exciting matchup for hockey fans. Central to the Oilers’ strategy will be veteran winger Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, who has shown impressive form after returning from injury on November 29.
Nugent-Hopkins has recorded assists in 12 of his last 20 games, totaling 14 assists during this stretch. This includes an average ice time of 19:18 per game, with a notable 3:44 of that time spent on the power play. His strong performance is reflected in his 53.6 Corsi For percentage and 56.3 expected goals percentage at even strength. Furthermore, he’s formed a formidable line alongside superstars Connor McDavid and Zach Hyman, generating an elite average of 8.2 goals per 60 minutes this season.
Given that the Chicago Blackhawks have been struggling defensively, allowing an average of 3.09 goals per game, and rank among the highest in shorthanded time, this matchup sets up favorably for Nugent-Hopkins to continue his assist streak.
For those looking to place bets, a promising same-game parlay includes the Oilers victorious on the moneyline, Nugent-Hopkins to achieve over 0.5 assists, and defenseman Evan Bouchard to have over 2.5 shots on goal. Bouchard has been an integral part of the Oilers’ power play, ranking in the 99th percentile among defensemen with 115 shots taken this season.
As the Oilers maintain a strong run, sporting an 11-5-2 record lately and ranking eighth in expected goals percentage at five-on-five, expectations are high for their performance against a struggling Blackhawks team that ranks 29th in the same metric.
The game is scheduled to start at 8:30 PM ET, and fans can catch the action on CHSN and Sportsnet West. With the recent trends in play and the Oilers’ potent offensive capabilities, this matchup has the potential to be a high-scoring affair.