Struggling Oilers Seek Positives in Upcoming Match Against Predators

Oilers, with one of the NHL's top offenses but struggling in defense, take on Predators who are also seeking a win after two consecutive losses on their five-game trip.

• Despite their strong offensive line led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Edmonton Oilers have lost 7 of their first 9 games due to difficulties in defense, ranking third-to-last in goals-against per game.
• Nashville Predators, on the other hand, are also looking to recover from two consecutive losses at the start of their five-game trip, bringing their overall record to 4-6.
• Both teams have shining players with Oilers' Sam Gagner scoring twice in the third period against the Dallas Stars despite their loss, and Predators' Thomas Novak earning five points in the past five games.
• Penalties could become a decisive factor in the matchup, with the Predators struggling on the penalty kill, allowing 10 power play goals in 33 opportunities, while the Oilers led the league with 32.4 percent with the man-advantage last season.
• Injury updates report that Oilers' Connor Brown might be out for an undetermined amount of time with a lower-body injury sustained against the Dallas Stars, while Predators' Cody Glass and Luke Schenn are out due to lower body injuries.

3 Articles

Reuters Deadspin Associated Press