The Edmonton Oilers are riding high after securing their third consecutive win, a feat they've only managed once before this season. Saturday’s 4-2 victory over the Anaheim Ducks was more than just another notch in the win column; it was a pivotal two points in the tight Pacific Division race.
Now, the Oilers find themselves just three points shy of the Ducks, who have a game in hand. Winning in regulation was absolutely key.
In this showdown, Connor McDavid, Jack Roslovic, Matt Savoie, and Zach Hyman found the back of the net for Edmonton, while Beckett Sennecke and Cutter Gauthier scored for Anaheim. The game was as intense as a playoff matchup, with both teams leaving it all on the ice. Let’s dive into three major takeaways from this crucial contest.
Oilers Hold Their Ground
The Oilers had to dig deep to fend off a potential collapse. With a 3-0 lead and just 13 minutes left in the third, Anaheim showed why they lead the league with 25 comeback victories-an impressive feat ranking 28th in NHL history for a single season.
The Ducks clawed back with two quick goals, slicing the lead to 3-2 with plenty of time remaining. However, Edmonton showcased their resilience, refusing to buckle under pressure.
Anaheim unleashed a barrage of shots in the final period, outshooting the Oilers 16-8, including a relentless stretch of nine consecutive shots. Their aggressive push more than doubled their shot count from the first two periods combined, but Edmonton's defense held firm. This brings us to our next key point.
Connor Ingram Shines
Connor Ingram was a standout performer in net for the Oilers. His stellar play was a major factor in Edmonton's ability to hold on for the win.
Ingram turned away 29 of 31 shots, boasting a .935 save percentage. Perfect through the first two periods, he remained a fortress in the third, thwarting Anaheim's relentless offensive efforts.
The Ducks generated 14 high-danger chances at 5-on-5 and racked up 2.05 expected goals, but Ingram was up to the task.
Edmonton’s defense has tightened up significantly this March, contributing to improved goaltending performances. The Oilers blocked 18 shots, making life difficult for the Ducks around the crease.
They effectively cleared rebounds, minimizing second-chance opportunities. Ingram had no chance on Anaheim’s goals-a perfect deflection from Sennecke and a fortunate bounce to Gauthier.
Heading into the playoffs, Ingram is undoubtedly Edmonton’s go-to guy in net, ready to face the toughest matchups.
Top Line Takes Charge
Edmonton’s top line was firing on all cylinders. The dynamic trio of McDavid, Savoie, and Vasily Podkolzin logged over 10 minutes together at 5-on-5, outshooting their opponents 7-2 and owning 60.62% of the expected goals. Without Leon Draisaitl, this newly formed line has found its rhythm and chemistry.
McDavid was electric, ending the night with a goal, three points, and six shots. Savoie continued his scoring streak, netting a goal in his third straight game.
Podkolzin contributed with an assist, three shots, four hits, and two blocked shots. Each player brought something unique-McDavid’s speed and skill, Savoie’s hockey IQ, and Podkolzin’s physicality and forechecking prowess.
This line was dominant, and it’s likely head coach Kris Knoblauch will keep them together until Draisaitl makes his return.
The Oilers are set to continue their homestand against the Seattle Kraken on Tuesday. Stay tuned for more NHL coverage as the season unfolds.