Tonight, the Edmonton Oilers’ brief two-game winning streak came to an end as they lost 6-5 to the Boston Bruins in overtime. There was a good amount of physical play, a high number of goals, and excitement throughout this game.
The Oilers had a 4-3-1 record after finishing the All-Star break, which speaks something about their mediocre play during that time. Their play in this one may be best described as average; at times, they resembled the top Oilers squad that supporters watch, while at other times, they appeared completely disjointed. These are the three key lessons to be learned from this high-scoring game.
Unbecoming Event for Evander Kane
The 2023–24 season has shown how divisive Evander Kane has become among Oilers supporters. While critics point out his bad analytics, inconsistent offensive output, and subpar defensive efforts, supporters laud his toughness and goal-scoring prowess. After this one, Kane’s detractors will have much to say. Many will hold him accountable for the Oilers’ current defeat.
Although Kane appeared to be puck-fighting the entire evening, his true difficulties became evident after the third period had halfway passed. When the game was knotted at four, Kane handed up two ridiculous goals within his own blue line, the second of which was unintentional and very expensive. David Pastrnak gave his team took the lead a few seconds later. Along with Ryan McLeod, he was on the ice for Charlie McAvoy’s game-winning overtime play. They got mixed up in their own zone. The 32-year-old will need to play more intelligent hockey for the Oilers going forward.
A Tough Evening for Stuart Skinner on the Net
Stuart Skinner’s lackluster play during the All-Star break has been a major factor in the Oilers’ subpar performance. He struggled once more in this one, giving up multiple opportunities on which he ought to have made stops. Brad Marchand’s low-danger shot past him cleanly on the short side early in the second to give the Bruins a 2-1 lead.
In this, Skinner let up six goals on 35 shots for a save percentage (SV%) of.805 in the game. This month, he has made five appearances and has a goals against average (GAA) of 3.46 and a save percentage of.880. If these difficulties persist for much longer, anxiety in Edmonton will grow, therefore the Oilers will need him to get back on track as quickly as possible.
Oilers Did Not See Ryan Nugent-Hopkins
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, an experienced centerback, was unable to play in this game for the Oilers because of illness. They were lacking him in many areas, especially on the power play, where they were 0-3 despite having a lot of excellent chances.
With 15 goals and 49 points in 52 games, Nugent-Hopkins is having another strong season for the Oilers, even though he won’t reach the 100-point mark like he did the previous one. The Oilers could have easily won two points if he had been able to suit up for this game.
After losing to the Bruins, what lies ahead for the Oilers?
The Vegas Golden Knights’ regulation loss to the Nashville Predators on Tuesday night means that, with three games remaining, the Oilers are only two points out of second place in the Pacific Division. When they play the Minnesota Wild on Friday, they’ll want to stay close to the lead. On Saturday, they’ll play the Calgary Flames.
