As the Edmonton Oilers take on the Nashville Predators tonight, here are three key areas that they need to focus on to secure a victory.
Steady Offense
The Edmonton Oilers have some of the best offensive players in the league, including Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. These two players have the ability to create scoring opportunities and put the puck in the net, but they need to start rolling during even strength.
The Oilers need to focus on getting the puck into the offensive zone and putting pressure on the Nashville Predators’ defence. The Oilers will take advantage of any power play opportunities that come their way, but they need to start scoring 5 on 5 goals.
They should also look to establish a strong forecheck and create turnovers in the Predators’ zone. This will allow them to generate scoring chances, put the Predators on the back foot and get them to take more penalties.
The Athletic’s Edmonton Oilers prediction looks unlikely
The Athletic has high expectations for Connor McDavid this season, but they're asking a lot of the Edmonton Oilers superstar centre.
Solid Defense
While the Oilers have struggled with defensive play so far this season, they need to make some improvements this season if they hope to be a cup contender. To win tonight, they need to focus on limiting the Nashville Predators’ scoring opportunities and clearing the puck out of their own zone.
The Oilers should look to block shots and play physical when necessary. By doing so, they can disrupt the Predators’ offensive rhythm and create turnovers. This will allow the Oilers to transition quickly from defence to offence and generate scoring opportunities.
The main issue is the Edmonton Oilers need to stop making the 10-bell errors. That is what is killing them this season. You aren’t going to win games if you give up a 2 on 0 in the NHL.
Want your voice heard? Join the Oil On Whyte team!
Edmonton Oilers Goaltending
Finally, the Oilers need to have strong goaltending to secure a victory. They have two capable goaltenders Jack Campbell and Stuart Skinner. Both goaltenders have had their fair share of struggles this season, and they need to find some success tonight.
Whoever the starting goalie should be able to make key saves when needed and keep the team in the game if the 5 on 5 offence struggles continue. Additionally, the Oilers should look to limit the Predators’ second and third-chance opportunities and clear rebounds from the crease.
The Edmonton Oilers have a strong team and have the ability to win against the Nashville Predators tonight. To secure a victory, they need to focus on their offence, defence, and goaltending. By doing so, they can disrupt the Predators’ game plan and generate scoring opportunities of their own.
As basic as these three points are the Edmonton Oilers need to get back to the basics in order to win. They can’t play too cute as they can’t afford to play cute anymore. They need a win and they need a win bad.