Despite the Edmonton Oilers getting a much-needed win versus the Calgary Flames, there’s still plenty for the fans to be concerned about.
Before we get into this, let’s be clear in stating the Edmonton Oilers impressed in the Heritage Classic Battle of Alberta. They more than deserved their 5-2 win versus the Calgary Flames.
However, as much as the victory gives something to build on, there’s still plenty to do. As of Thursday morning, the Oilers are tied with the Flames for the second-fewest points in the entire NHL.
Yes, a winning run has to start somewhere, and we know this team is capable of so much more than they have shown so far in 2023-24. However, the Oilers still need to deal with the three following concerns, in order to get on track and become the Stanley Cup contenders they were predicted to be preseason:
1) Lack of consistency and focus
One of the few negatives about the Oilers’ win over the Flames, was giving up two goals when they seemed to be in control of the game. And the argument that both came on the penalty kill, while reasonable, only holds up to a certain point.
The reason for this, is that both Flames goals came when they had just one second left on the power play. Some would call this just plain unlucky, while others would point to an underlying issue for the Oilers.
To give up just one goal with a second left on the penalty kill is one thing, but twice alludes to something more concerning. More specifically, that the Oilers were lacking focus at key points in the game.
The idea is to remain zoned in on the task at hand, until it has been completed. And really, this has been a problem for the Oilers repeatedly throughout their first eight games of the season.
Further, the lack of focus ties in with the Oilers’ struggling for consistency thus far. Together, they’re a lethal combination which can quite easily derail any hope for a deep run come playoff time. (Or, dare we say it, making the playoffs full stop.)
One of the main examples of the lack of focus and consistency, came in the game versus the Jets. Despite taking an early 2-0 lead and dominating, the Oilers didn’t take full advantage and eventually fell 3-2 in overtime.
Another example came in Minnesota, albeit more on the focus side (and also alluding to their defensive frailties, which we’ll get to). Despite entering the final period with a 3-2 lead, the Oilers totally fell apart and allowed five goals in what was ultimately a 7-4 loss.
Of course, pointing to a lack of focus and consistency is one thing; actually doing something about it is another matter entirely. However, it will make all the difference, if the Oilers are to return to their winning ways of recent seasons.