Edmonton Oilers: Drake Caggiula’s Playoff Push

The Edmonton Oilers recently promoted a hard-working forward to the top line: Drake Caggiula.

Just a year ago, the 22-year-old forward was playing with the University of North Dakota, fighting for a NCAA championship. Now, he’s looking to make his impact on the ice in his first ever Stanley Cup playoff campaign.

Edmonton Oilers

Though Caggiula has yet to post a point, he has been getting great chances and making all the difference on the ice. He is an asset on the penalty kill, and also serves as a key contributor on the top line. Thanks to Caggiula’s speed and hard work, he is able to work the puck off ice and create plenty of scoring chances.

This postseason, Caggiula has attempted 18 shots on goal this postseason, and also fights hard to get his chances. He wins battles for the puck and knows where to make quality plays. Though only a rookie, he has made all the difference.

Not to mention, he also plays a solid two-way game, and can backcheck efficiently. The Ontario native can play a physical game while also blocking shots and keeping possession of the puck. Additioanlly, he has been great on the penalty kill, though he has to avoid taking too many penalties. Caggiula has eight PIM in the last six games.

One part of Caggiula’s game that has been outstanding is his physicality. Though he is only 5-foot-9, he brings plenty of physicality, as seen in the regular season. During the year, Caggiula managed about 7 hits per 60 minutes on average. He has carried that over into the playoffs, and it has made him a better player on the ice.

If Edmonton wants to win the series against Anaheim, their top line will have to step up. Caggiula not only brings scoring chances, but physicality as well, and should be an asset as time goes on.