The Edmonton Oilers, led by Connor McDavid, face a challenging situation as they host the Los Angeles Kings in Game 3 of the 2025 NHL playoffs first round on Friday. The Oilers are looking to bounce back from a 0-2 series deficit.
Game 1 saw Edmonton mount a late surge with four goals in the third period but ultimately fell short in Los Angeles, losing 6-5. In Game 2, the Kings proved dominant, securing a decisive 6-2 victory, highlighted by two goals from Adrian Kempe.
Game 3 is scheduled to be played at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, with puck drop set for 10 p.m. ET.
Entering this crucial Game 3, the Edmonton Oilers are listed as -136 favorites on the money line, meaning a $136 wager would win $100. The Los Angeles Kings are the underdogs at +115, where a $100 bet could yield a $115 profit. The expected total number of goals, or over/under, is set at 6. The Oilers also have a puck line of -1.5 with odds of +183.
Best Bets for Oilers vs. Kings Game 3
Under 6 Total Goals (-110)
While the first two games featured high scores, this trend may not continue as the series moves north. The Kings showed a significant difference in goal differential during the regular season, finishing with a minus-15 on the road compared to a plus-61 at home. Additionally, the Oilers` recent home games in the 2024-25 campaign saw lower totals, with the Under hitting in three of their final four home contests. Despite Los Angeles scoring six goals in consecutive games, analysis suggests the total goals in Game 3 are likely to be under 6.
Darnell Nurse: Over 2.5 Blocked Shots (+145)
Veteran defenseman Darnell Nurse has been active defensively against the Kings, recording 10 blocked shots over his last three games against them, including an impressive six blocks in Game 1. He also posted a strong +12 rating when playing on home ice during the regular season. His defensive presence at Rogers Place will be vital for Edmonton in limiting the Kings` scoring chances. Nurse is listed with odds of +145 to achieve over 2.5 blocked shots in Friday`s game.
Adrian Kempe: 2+ Points (+230)
Adrian Kempe, the Swedish winger, has been consistently productive for the Kings. He has registered two or more points in five of his last six games and has recorded at least one point in 10 of his last 11 games dating back to late March. His effectiveness on the power play has been particularly notable, an area the Kings will look to capitalize on as the series progresses. Odds of +230 are offered for Kempe to achieve two or more points in this matchup.
