The Anaheim Ducks are set to host the Edmonton Oilers in an upcoming NHL regular championship match.
The Anaheim Ducks resumed the season after the All-Star break showing confidence and achieving successes. They emerged from the break with a 3:2 overtime victory against the San Jose Sharks, thanks to the decisive puck from Frank Vatrano and an important contribution from Troy Terry, who scored with 61 seconds remaining in regular time, extending his scoring series to 6 games. The Ducks displayed determination by equalising in the closing stages and securing victory in overtime, demonstrating their ability for heroic comebacks.
In the context of the league table and the upcoming NHL trade deadline, Anaheim is aware that the team could bid farewell to Adam Henrique and Jakob Silfverberg due to their potential free-agent status. This adds a level of uncertainty to the team's future. Despite ranking low in the league for goals scored and conceded, recent games have shown the Ducks' ability to improve upon these figures. The Ducks rank 26th in terms of goals allowed (3.40) and 22nd in penalty kill percentage (77.9%).
Following an impressive 16-match winning streak, the Edmonton Oilers faced a 3:1 defeat from the Vegas Golden Knights, concluding the record streak on Wednesday night. The meeting with the Golden Knights, part of a three-game road series, highlighted both the team's strengths and areas for improvement. The Oilers opened the scoring thanks to Connor McDavid, who scored his 21st goal of the season, however, Vegas was able to respond with three unanswered goals, securing the victory.
This period has proven to be a test for Edmonton, particularly with their intent to improve their standing in the Pacific Division. The team displayed strong defence, conceding two or fewer goals in the majority of games leading up to this encounter. The Oilers now are focusing on upcoming games, aiming to embark on a new winning streak and continue to showcase strength. McDavid continues to lead the team, amassing 68 points and solidifying his role as a key player.
The Edmonton Oilers showcase an impressive form, winning all of the last 5 encounters against the Anaheim Ducks. In these games, the Oilers had been dominant on the ice. The teams last met on 1st January 2024, a match that saw Edmonton confidently winning 7:2. This winning streak confirms the Oilers' high level of play, with the score running as high as 8:1 and 6:0, also victories of 7:3 and 6:1 in 2022 games.
Over the past 3 years, Edmonton has consistently outperformed Anaheim, winning four times with a gap of 4 goals or more. Considering the end of their record-breaking winning streak and the lost game against champions Vegas, Draisaitl and his company are determined to start a new streak and should easily defeat the Ducks on the road.
Comments0