The Oilers Offence Is Great, But...

Johnny Hawkey

27 Jan 202403:02

Summary

TLDRThe video analyzes the Edmonton Oilers' recent win streak, highlighting their balanced offense led by McDavid and Draisaitl. It also praises the Oilers' improved defense and goaltending from Skinner for stabilizing the team. Specific defensive plays are analyzed, including Nurse's penalty kill and the crowd cheering Vincent Desharnais for making a key defensive stop. The summary notes that while the stars get attention, these defensive efforts are contributing just as much during the win streak.

Takeaways

😊 The Oilers have been getting balanced scoring up and down the lineup during their win streak
👌 Good awareness by Nuge to create a passing option on the first goal
🚀 Drysdale quickly found Nuge for the first goal after getting the puck from him
💪 Everyone protecting the Drysdale one-timer opened up space for McDavid on the second goal
🌟 McDavid slipped in the third goal with ease as he often does
🙌 Stewart Skinner had another great game, stabilizing the Oilers' net
🛡 The defense made some excellent plays, like Vinde cutting off a passing lane on the PK
👏 Nuge blocked shots and knew when to pressure puck carriers on the PK
😃 Vinde's defensive play got cheers from the Oilers fans mid-offensive clinic
👍 Nuge's defensive awareness directly saved a goal for the Oilers

Q & A

What has been the key to the Oilers' offense during their win streak?
-They have been getting balanced scoring up and down the lineup. Players like Nurse, Hyman, Nugent-Hopkins and others have contributed along with stars like McDavid and Draisaitl.
How did Skinner play in this game?
-Skinner played very well, making some key saves. His strong play has helped stabilize the Oilers' goaltending during this win streak.
What defensive play stood out in this game?
-Vincent Desharnais made an excellent defensive play to break up a dangerous Predators passing play on the penalty kill. He then held onto the puck for over 10 seconds to kill off more time.
How did the Oilers fans react to Desharnais' defensive play?
-The home fans cheered loudly for Desharnais and appreciated his defensive contribution, even in a game dominated by McDavid and Draisaitl's offense.
How has Nugent-Hopkins contributed during the win streak?
-Nugent-Hopkins has excelled on both the power play and the penalty kill. He makes smart plays at both ends of the ice.
What makes Nugent-Hopkins effective on the penalty kill?
-He knows when to pressure opponents to force turnovers and when to stay in position to protect passing lanes. His positioning saved a goal in this game.
What fan chant did Nugent-Hopkins receive after his key penalty kill play?
-The fans chanted "Nuge" in appreciation of his defensive contribution on the penalty kill.
How would you describe Desharnais' personality?
-Desharnais seems to have an upbeat, fun-loving personality. He was laughing on the bench about his key defensive play.
What has led to the Oilers' recent winning streak?
-Balanced scoring and improved defensive play have complemented their potent offense led by McDavid and Draisaitl.
What message does the fan appreciation for defensive plays send?
-It shows that Oilers fans understand winning requires responsibility in all areas of the ice, not just offensive production.