Three Keys To An Edmonton Oilers Victory Vs San Jose Sharks

The Edmonton Oilers are playing their first game post Christmas tonight against the San Jose Sharks.

Nov 9, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; Edmonton Oilers defenseman Cody Ceci (5) and Edmonton Oilers
Nov 9, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; Edmonton Oilers defenseman Cody Ceci (5) and Edmonton Oilers | Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports
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Edmonton Oilers Stuart Skinner
Dec 19, 2023; Elmont, New York, USA; New York Islanders center Bo Horvat (14) celebrates his power | Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

2. Edmonton Oilers Goaltending Needs To Be Solid

As the Edmonton Oilers prepare to face off against the San Jose Sharks tonight, their inconsistent goaltending continues to be a major concern. To win tonight's game and make a push for the playoffs, the Oilers need to improve their goaltending and get consistent performances from their netminders.

In recent games, the Oilers have struggled to get solid goaltending from either of their two "NHL" goaltenders, Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard. While Skinner has shown flashes of brilliance this season, he has also struggled with consistency and has let in some soft goals at critical times. Against a team like the Sharks, who have not very many offensive weapons, the Oilers need their goaltenders to be on top of their game and make the big saves when it matters most.

To improve their goaltending, the Oilers need to focus on a few key areas. First, they need to get better play from their defense. The Oilers' defense has been inconsistent this season, and they need to do a better job of limiting high-quality scoring chances and clearing the front of the net. This will give their goaltenders a better chance to make saves and limit second-chance opportunities.

The Oilers need to get more consistent goaltending from their netminders. Both Skinner and Pickard need to step up and play at a higher level if the Oilers want to make a push for the playoffs. They need to be more consistent with their positioning and rebound control, and they need to make the big saves when the game is on the line.

The Edmonton Oilers' inconsistent goaltending is a major concern heading into tonight's game against the San Jose Sharks. To win tonight's game and to continue to make a push for the playoffs, the Oilers need to get better play from their defense, improve their goaltending coaching and development, and get more consistent performances from their netminders. If they can do that, they will have a better chance to come away with a win tonight and make a run for the playoffs this season.

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