The Edmonton Oilers will head into the Christmas break on a two-game winning streak thanks to another strong third period. The Edmonton Oilers scored 4 goals in the third period to defeat the New York Rangers 4-3.
Not only were these an important 2 points for an Oilers team that is still trying to catch up in the standing, but it set the mood for the Christmas break for this team. Heading into the break the Edmonton Oilers now have a record of 15-15-1, thanks to now being on a two-game winning streak.
For fans of hockey this was one exciting game to watch. Even thought the score was 1-0 for the Rangers heading into the third, there was a lot of chances going both ways and the goalies deserve alot of credit for the 1-0 score heading into the third.
Unfortunatly, once the third period started the game was no longer in the goalies' favour. The Edmonton Oilers broke through the dam first scoring their 4 goals in the first 10 minutes of the period. Then as the game was more so out of reach the Rangers added two late goals. The game went from two goalies with great save percentages to a game where Skinner ended with a 0.912 and Quick with a 0.857 SV%.
Heading into the third period it looked like the Edmonton Oilers were well on their way to being goalied as it appeared that Quick was not going to be beaten and was playing like he did on the LA Kings cup runs. Then once the Oilers got a chink in the armor the goals started to go in.
Edmonton Oilers Depth Comes In Clutch Once Again
Usually when the Oilers win a game it is on the backs of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Tonight that was not that case as between the two of them McDavid only got one assist. This is a good sign for the Edmonton Oilers, as it shows that the team can win even if the big guns aren't firing.
There is no doubt that there will be games when the Oilers will still rely heavily on those two to win the games, but it is also nice to know that they will not live and die with their All-Stars like they have in seasons past. The Oilers could be a really scary team if both the depth and top players are firing on all cylinders.
Any Break Is A Good Break In The NHL
The NHL has a gruelling 82-game schedule with very little rest in the season. There is very little off time to help heal any minor injuries players may be playing through. This is why I look forward to seeing what the Oilers can do after the Christmas break.
There is no doubt in my mind that a couple of players are playing with a few bumps and bruises. Not to mention the players that are currently injured like Dylan Holloway and now Sam Gagner. The time off is a chance for them to heal and hopefully get back in the lineup.
The Oilers will return on the ice on December 28th as they head on a California road trip. They face the San Jose Sharks on the 28th, the Kings on the 30th and the Ducks on New Year's Eve. If the Oilers are successful on this road trip they could very well find themselves in a playoff spot if not extremely close to one.