The Colorado Avalanche trading star Mikko Rantanen signifies a change in their team-building approach from front-loading their squad to improving their depth.

Despite being a fan favorite and a key part of the Avalanche's recent success, the salary-cap reality forced their hand.

Evan Bouchard also scored a goal and had an assist, and Brett Kulak and Viktor Arvidsson each scored a goal for the Oilers (29-13-3), who have won four straight, including a 5-3 comeback win at the Minnesota Wild on Wednesday. Leon Draisaitl had two assists, and Stuart Skinner made 22 saves.

The Edmonton Oilers will face the Colorado Avalanche in this NHL matchup at Ball Arena on Thursday, January 16th.WATCH: Oilers vs Avalanche Live | Stream free on FuboThe Oilers are second in the Pacific Division with a 28-13-3 record.

Analyzing Thursday’s Edmonton Oilers at Colorado Avalanche odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. Edmonton Oilers defenseman Brett Kulak, front left, is congratulated after scoring against the Colorado ...

The Oilers erase a multi-goal deficit for the third time in four games to clinch their fourth straight victory on Thursday night in a 4-3 comeback win over the Avalanche at Ball Arena

At Ball Arena on Thursday, January 16, the Colorado Avalanche and Edmonton Oilers -- led by Nathan MacKinnon and Leon Draisaitl, respectively -- will go head-to-head at 9:30 PM ET. Watch the action on ESPN as the Avalanche attempt to defeat the Oilers.

The Edmonton Oilers are a team that has arguably the best offensive weapons in the entire NHL, and they could soon get a whole lot more dangerous. The

Prediction for the NHL Colorado Avalanche vs Edmonton Oilers match will occur on January 17. Who will turn out to be stronger? Check the team conditions! Several betting options are available.

Colorado Avalanche's final contract offer to Mikko Rantanen before trading him to the Carolina Hurricanes was leaked by the renowned insider Elliotte Friedman.

The Edmonton Oilers know this all too well. For the Oilers, that came in the form of Stan Bowman becoming the GM of the organization in the summer. Speaking of summer, one thing that was not on anyone's bingo card before October was the Colorado Avalanche trading superstar Mikko Rantanen.