The Edmonton Oilers delivered an announcement efficiency in opposition to the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday evening. With out Connor McDavid and with the media narrative that this was a recreation that might get out of hand, the Oilers confirmed their depth, self-discipline, and willingness to let the Canucks lose their cool and take too many penalties. It resulted in a 6-2 win for Edmonton. Listed here are the important thing takeaways from the sport:
Draisaitl, Hyman Lead the Oilers With Three Factors Every
Leon Draisaitl and Zach Hyman each had three factors to guide the Oilers. Hyman scored two targets early and had a couple of good probabilities to get the hat trick. Draisaitl had a objective and two assists, with one of many passes of the 12 months to Hyman.
Draisaitl has stepped previously with out McDavid and he did so once more. After the sport, he famous he appreciated the staff’s all-around effort and their composure in a contest that the Canucks let get away from them. Draisaitl prolonged his house factors streak to 17 video games and performed 21:55. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins added a objective and an help, whereas the ability play continued to click on with two targets.
Corey Perry’s Veteran Impression
Corey Perry continues to show his price, even when he’s not a heavy presence on the scoreboard. He was a pest that drove the Canucks loopy, focusing on Vancouver’s prime gamers and forcing the Canucks into unhealthy penalties.
He mentioned he thought the Oilers have been dialed in from the beginning and mentioned the three early targets set the tone. His physicality and in-game consciousness have been evident, particularly when he neutralized what was going to be an influence play for the Canucks. He let Teddy Blueger lose his cool and punch away whereas the refs evened issues up.
Draisaitl praised Perry post-game, calling him one of many smartest gamers he’s ever seen when studying what the sport wants. Draisaitl added, “His hockey IQ and in-game administration” is up there with anybody he’s ever performed in opposition to.
Calvin Pickard Stands Tall Early
Getting the beginning on Thursday evening, Calvin Pickard was strong in objective once more. He held Vancouver off the scoreboard early. Each targets on Pickard weren’t essentially his fault, and when the Canucks pushed later within the second, Pickard stood tall.
He made 24 saves on 26 pictures for a .923 save share.
Particular Groups and Self-discipline Make the Distinction
Canucks coach Rick Tocchet referenced his staff’s undisciplined play, which gave the Oilers too many “freebies.” Penalties and poor decision-making—highlighted by Vincent Desharnais taking three penalties—have been expensive for Vancouver. The Oilers made the Canucks pay, scoring two power-play targets.
With Connor McDavid watching from the press field, this efficiency confirmed that Edmonton isn’t just a one-man staff. They picked up a giant win with out the captain and despatched a message to a Canucks’ staff that had no reply for Edmonton’s depth.
Subsequent: NHL Commerce Discuss Recap: Oilers, Canucks, Penguins, Maple Leafs
