NHL Matchup - November 26, 2007

The Columbus Blue Jackets and Edmonton Oilers clash for the first time this season Monday night at Rexall Place.

Edmonton holds a huge edge head-to-head over the past 10 meetings, but bettors should be wary of that stat as Columbus is a vastly improved team this season. For the record, Edmonton is 7-1-0-2 over the past 10 against Columbus. The teams last met on Feb. 22, 2007 in Columbus, with the Oilers picking up a 4-0 shut out.

Columbus (11-8-4 SU) last played Saturday against Central Division rival the Detroit Red Wings, winning 3-2 on home ice. Edmonton hosted the Chicago Blackhawks Saturday night and won 3-2 in a shootout.

Edmonton’s league-worst power play will be going up against the NHL’s third-best penalty killing.

For over/under bettors, there’s a prevalent Under trend in this matchup. The total has gone Under in 10 of Columbus's past 15 road games, Under in six of Columbus's past eight games against Edmonton, Under in four of Edmonton's past six games, and Under in five of Edmonton's past seven at home.

The Blue Jackets are expected to have Pascal Leclaire in net, while the Oilers will go with Dwayne Roloson.

Betting Line: Columbus is a 120-moneyline favorite at BetUS.com. The over/under is 5½.