Apr 4, 2013; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks defenseman Jason Garrison (5) and Edmonton Oilers forward Paajarvi Magnus (91) fight for the puck during the second period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports

The Oilers’ playoff chances took a hit with the loss to Vancouver (now 27.7% according to sportsclubstats.com), but a win today versus Los Angeles would renew Oilers fans’ optimism.

Oilers-Kings Preview – The Oilers are set to take on the Kings this afternoon.

“Wild Optimism” – According to Scott Reynolds, the Oilers’ poor shot differential indicates that they are “still a very bad team.”

“Nation Profile: Ryan Smyth” – Lowetide profiles the career of the beloved Oiler veteran.

OKC Barons Boxscore – The Barons scored the winning goal with 15 seconds left in the game and are now sixth in the Western Conference.

“NHL Power Rankings: Oilers’ Big Jump” – The Oilers move up 12 positions in Sportsnet’s power rankings.

Mar 26, 2013; St. Louis, MO, USA; Edmonton Oilers center Jordan Eberle (14) takes a shot as St. Louis Blues right wing Vladimir Tarasenko (91) pressures during the third period at the Scottrade Center. The Oilers defeated the Blues 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports

“Edmonton Oilers Player Grades: Nikolai Khabibulin Holds the Fort” – Jonathan Willis gives out player grades for last night’s win in St. Louis.

“It’s Time for the Edmonton Oilers to Clean House” – David Staples writes, “In the end, if the Oilers continue to trend in the wrong direction this year, it will be crystal clear that the current management group is on the wrong track, and that new leadership is needed to direct the team.”

“Corsi and Context” – If you like “advanced stats,” this post by Tyler Dellow will be right up your alley.

“Daniil Zharkov’s Progress” – After watching a recent Bulleville Bulls game, Thomas Drance shares his thoughts on Oilers’ prospect Daniil Zharkov.

“The Danger with DeKeyser” – Jake Pringle argues that signing coveted college free agent defenseman Danny DeKeyser should not be viewed as a cure-all for the Oilers’ woes.

“The Single-Worst Play by an Oiler This Year?” – If you watched Monday’s game versus Nashville, you might be able to guess the play Jonathan Willis is referring to.