Both the New Jersey Devils and the Edmonton Oilers are trying to turn around their dismal season opening performances. Despite their 14-10-1 record, the Devils have risen to the top of the Metropolitan Division after three straight victories. With six straight victories, the Oilers have jumped up to fifth place in the Pacific Division with an 11-12-1 record. The next game should be fantastic as both clubs aim to continue their winning ways and climb to the top of their respective divisions.
Devils hope their offensive fire never goes out.
With 12 goals in their last three games, the Devils’ offence, which scores 3.63 goals per game, has turned the team’s season around. The top two lines, led by Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt, and Tyler Toffoli, have combined for 32 goals and 51 assists, but the entire offensive group has been excellent as well. Defensemen Luke Hughes and John Marino have added five goals and 21 assists from the point to open up the offence, while Erik Haula, Ondrej Palat, and Alexander Holtz have combined for 18 goals and 18 assists.
The defence, which gives up 3.67 goals per game, is still hurting the Devils despite the offense’s outstanding play. Together, Jonas Seigenthaler and John Marino have contributed 1.7 defensive point shares, while the rest of the team has faltered, making it easy for opponents to find open shots on the net. Goalie Akira Schmid has additionally struggled, recording a 3.03 goals-against average on 295 shots with a.902 save percentage and -0.5 goals saved above average.
Oilers have a strong offensive.
With 31 goals in their previous six games, the Oilers’ offence, which scores 3.46 goals per game, is driving them up the standings. The top line is led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, who have combined for 20 goals and 45 assists, but the entire offensive unit has performed well. Defensemen Evan Bouchard and Mattias Ekholm have added 11 goals and 26 assists from the point to help push the offence over the top, while Zach Hyman, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Evander Kane have combined for 31 goals and 39 assists.
The defence has struggled, giving up 3.46 goals per game, while the offence has been excellent. Although Cody Ceci and Darnell Nurse have combined for 2.6 defensive point shares, the rest of the team has failed, making it easy for opponents to find open looks on the basket. Goalie Stuart Skinner has also struggled, recording a 3.03 goals-against average on 480 shots with a save % of.888, -7.6 goals saved above average.
This matchup between two teams that are on fire will be fantastic. On home ice, the Oilers aim to dominate this game while the Devils try to win their fourth straight. With Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and the rest of the forward group dominating the puck in the offensive zone and setting up open shots with rapid passes, the Oilers, who score 3.46 goals per game, should score a lot more. With Darnell Nurse, Cody Ceci, and the rest of the defence causing mistakes at the blue line and restricting shots on goal, the Oilers should be able to limit the Devils’ offensive output and give goaltender Stuart Skinner plenty of opportunities to make simple saves.To increase their winning run to seven games, the Oilers should win the game with a solid showing on home ice.
