The Edmonton Oilers are down 1-0 in their first playoff series in 11 years. They fell to San Jose in Game 1 Wednesday in a 3-2 overtime decision.
Though the Oilers didn’t capture that first victory, they can surely take away enough to come back and win Game 2. Here is everything they have to do to ensure a victory.
Edmonton Oilers
Shots on Goal
This was the biggest problem for the Oilers in Game 1. Even the first line of Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl and Patrick Maroon struggled at times to get pucks on net. After getting 10 shots on net in the first, Edmonton managed just nine more through the next three periods. They were not only outplayed but struggled to even get pressure on.
If the Oilers want to leave victorious and tie this series up, they will have to put on tremendous pressure and get shots on net. They relied on quick passes and fancy plays, and simply need to do more to just get pucks on net. This way, they avoid turnovers and also put on more pressure.
Zone Time
Additionally, Edmonton had a huge problem when it came to zone time. The Oilers spent way too much time in their own zone, and let the Sharks have too much time with the puck. This led to the Sharks getting plenty of scoring chances and tiring out the Oilers’ lines.
There needs to be balanced zone time and better play from the Oilers in the neutral zone. Additionally, Edmonton needs to improve with maintaining puck possession. Doing this will help them put up a better fight, and lead to them limiting the Sharks’ shots on net and opportunities.
Penalties
The Oilers must stay out of the box. It is vital for them to avoid penalties, especially against San Jose, which has an arsenal of weapons on special teams. When the Sharks are given too many chances and time in the zone and many power-play chances, they will eventually score.
On the other side of the argument, the Oilers have to make the most of their power play. That is one of their most powerful units and was among the best in the NHL during the regular season. Additionally, they managed a goal against the Sharks, and it can do more damage. The Oilers just have to keep the puck in the zone, make smart plays and get bodies in front.
The puck drops at 8:30 EST from Rogers Place. Edmonton can tie the series with a victory Friday.