Edmonton Oilers: Playoff Push Motivating Jordan Eberle

The Edmonton Oilers are nearing the end of their season, and have their playoff hopes on the line. As they continue to make a push in the Pacific Division race, Jordan Eberle is starting to find his game.

Edmonton Oilers

Coming off an excellent performance against Pittsburgh Friday, Eberle seems to be finding his rhythm. He has improved greatly, and though his numbers aren’t excellent, Eberle seems to be finding his edge again. He has three points in his last five games and has started to shoot the puck more.

Against Pittsburgh, Eberle was skating well, creating chances and making plays. He also took the time to draw penalties and made the most of his ice time. The only issue that still resonates with him is his struggles when it comes to how well he shoots the puck.

Eberle seems to have lost his rhythm and lethal sniping ability but is close to finding it again. He seems to get his shots off too quickly, and they are most likely wide of the net or blocked. The 26-year-old is on pace for his worst season since his rookie year and has just 14 goals and 39 points through 67 games.

Playing with More Edge

Eberle appears to have more in his game. He is skating with effort and determination in each stride and isn’t trying to get too fancy with the puck. In fact, he is showing great timing and chemistry with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Milan Lucic, and their line is finally starting to show top-six ability.

Not only that, Eberle is taking his time and avoiding turnovers. His possession numbers are outstanding, and he is doing more to make sure he gets the puck int he zone and gets a shot on goal.

This is the Eberle we want to see, and considering the playoffs, there has to be some kind of correlation between his improved performance and the postseason nearing.