TALE OF THE TAPE:
Game: Edmonton Oilers (5-10-0) at Anaheim Ducks (5-7-3)
Location: Honda Center, Anaheim, California
Time: 8:00 PM MT
Where to find it: TV: Sportsnet One – Radio: 630 CHED
Edmonton Oilers Preview:
Before tonight’s game, I highly recommend reading this fantastic article on Oilers Nerd Alert. The trends surrounding this team are actually reading in a really positive so it might be a little soon to jump ship on this group.
The advanced statistics show that this team is trending upwards both offensively, as well as defensively. I am an optimist and I really feel that the strong coaching the Oilers have has been looked over. Let’s not forget the credentials and the resume that Todd McLellan and his coaching staff brings with them.
Tonight’s game is no different. Like the Oilers, the Ducks have sputtered out of the gate to start the season. Despite the fact that the Ducks are 4-0-1 in their last five, they are 0-3 when trailing after the first period. On the other hand, the Oilers are 3-1 when leading after the first. A strong start to this game for the Oilers could mean they put the nail in the coffin early.
Friend of the blog (and great Oilers Vlogger) Ryan Robinson pointed out that this season, the Oilers have faced teams that are a combined 110-58-17. As he mentioned, it isn’t an excuse but these games are tough for any team to win. 8 of our 10 losses have been against top 10 teams in the league.
This team has shown that they are willing to fight to win hockey games; I would not be surprised to see the Oilers fight back in the standings and make a climb.
The Otherside:
Anaheim continues a three-game homestand after a 4-3 overtime loss to the Arizona Coyotes on Monday. “[Edmonton has] a different coach and approach to things,” Boudreau said. “They’ve got a different attitude. They definitely have the talent. We know our hands are full because these are teams we’ve beaten in the past. They’re ready to put us down. We better be ready to play.” – nhl.com
Line Combos and Starting Goalies via Left Wing Lock:
Oilers (Anders Nilsson):
Ducks (Fredrik Andersen):
Any ideas on how to improve my game previews? Send me an email at zjlaing@gmail.com.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-k5J4RxQdE]
