NHL · April 13, 2026
Colorado Avalanche @ Edmonton Oilers
Free LineCrush game report for Colorado Avalanche @ Edmonton Oilers on April 13, 2026, with matchup analysis and pick ideas generated for the daily slate. Reports can update as lineups, injuries, and odds develop, so confirm time-sensitive details before acting.
Matchup Analysis
Avalanche Road Form vs Oilers Home Positioning
Colorado brings a dominant 27-7-5 away record into Rogers Place, riding a six-game road winning streak, while Edmonton is fighting for playoff positioning at 21-14-4 at home. The Avalanche's 47-6-6 record when scoring three or more goals gives them a significant edge if they can establish their offensive rhythm.
Injury Impact: Draisaitl and Jones Availability
Leon Draisaitl remains in the projected lineup on the fifth line, while Isaac Howard's role in the top six alongside McDavid and Nugent-Hopkins represents a major lineup adjustment, as Max Jones also remains available for the Oilers.
Avalanche Coaching Change Creates Uncertainty
With head coach Jared Bednar sidelined for the next two games after being struck by a puck on Saturday, the Avalanche will operate without their bench leader during a critical matchup. This comes after Colorado's 3-2 overtime loss to Vegas, adding another layer of adversity to navigate.
Defensive Depth Concerns for Colorado
The Avalanche defensive corps, led by Cale Makar, Josh Manson, and Jack Ahcan, are all currently on the active roster. This unit will be tested against an Oilers team averaging 3.2 goals per game, ranked fifth in the league.
Head-to-Head Dynamics in Season Series
The teams meet for the third time this season, with Edmonton winning the previous matchup 4-3, a game in which Leon Draisaitl recorded two assists. The Avalanche (52-16-11) maintain a 25-point lead over the Oilers' 90 points, but Edmonton has shown they can compete with the NHL-leading Avalanche.
Pick Ideas
Colorado Moneyline (-125)
The Avalanche's superior record (52-16-11) and dominant road form (27-7-5) make them attractive favorites despite coaching changes. Colorado's six-game road winning streak provides strong momentum.
Over 6.5 Goals
Edmonton averages 3.2 goals at home while Colorado averages 3.8 goals on the road; combined with the Oilers' defensive structure and an Avalanche unit featuring Cale Makar, this game has potential for offensive output.
Connor McDavid Over 3.5 Shots on Goal
McDavid will be featured prominently in the top line with linemate Isaac Howard, and should see elevated shot volume against a Colorado defense that includes Cale Makar.