Sparked by superstar Connor McDavid, the Oilers have been the No. 1 offensive team in the NHL for the last 11 weeks. That's not a big surprise. What is a little shocking is how well the Oilers have been on defense.

Only once in their last 11 games have the Oilers given up more than three goals in a game. They've been a top-six defense during the last six weeks.

Edmonton comes out of break 7-0-1 in its last eight games with all of the victories except one coming by multiple goals.

So I don't mind laying this price to back the Oilers against the Red Wings, who I rank near the bottom tier of teams. After showing improvement during the first two months of the season, Detroit is 9-18 in its last 27 games.

The Oilers have been far better on the road with a 15-7-1 record.