Top 3 Oilers studs from 4-1 win over Bedard and the Blackhawks
By Paul Taylor
2) Sam Gagner
There were those who wondered about the wisdom of bringing Sam Gagner back into the fold on a PTO during the summer. He was only able to practice during training camp, due to still recovering from surgery on both hips.
However, after finally recovering and looking good in Bakersfield, he was re-signed by the Oilers to help boost their faltering bottom six. Since then he’s done that and more, as he’s taken the fans on a trip down memory lane during his third tour of duty in Edmonton.
It started with the Oilers’ 2007 sixth overall draft pick scoring twice in his debut against the Stars. Yes it came in a loss, but right away he was providing the team with the help it desperately needed.
Since then, Gagner has proved to be a steadying influence with his extensive experience in the NHL. Then came Tuesday night, when he produced two points for the first time since his season debut versus the Stars.
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The 34-year-old’s first point turned out to be his most crucial, with his goal ultimately proving to be the game-winner. Coming with less than two minutes remaining in the opening period, he was in the right place to finish Derek Ryan’s pass from behind the Blackhawks goal.
Gagner’s other point came via a secondary assist, as he kept the play alive with his hustle, resulting in Leon Draisaitl scoring. There was some luck as it took a deflection to send Draisaitl’s shot home, but they all count and all that ultimately mattered was it made the score 3-1 Oilers in the second period.
Postgame, Gagner was asked about the contributions of the bottom six, particularly his line. Speaking to the media, he said:
"“I think we have the ability to do that, to contribute on the offensive side. Our main objective is to make sure we’re playing good defensively and giving our team good minutes, and trying to tilt the ice so that when our big guys get out there, they’re in an advantageous situation. I feel like we’ve been playing well, but we have to stay on it.”"