The regular season has finally arrived, and the Edmonton Oilers are ready to kick off their campaign after a heartbreaking loss in Game 7 of last season’s Stanley Cup Final. On Wednesday night (Oct. 9), their journey toward redemption begins as they host the Winnipeg Jets at Rogers Place. If the Oilers want to make an early statement, here are three critical keys to victory:
1. Start Strong
Getting off to a fast start is crucial for the Oilers. Last season’s opening game was a disaster, with an 8-1 defeat to the Vancouver Canucks that set the tone for their 2-9 start. Edmonton needs to push the pace, be aggressive on the forecheck, and throw some early hits to get emotionally engaged in the game.
With the season opener at home, scoring the first goal would not only energize the team but also bring the fans into the game. A good start will help the Oilers shake off their lackluster preseason performance, where they posted a disappointing 3-5 record and appeared uninspired. This is a talented team, and they need to play to their potential from the first puck drop.
2. Skinner and Arvidsson Must Deliver
The Oilers added two key offensive weapons in Jeff Skinner and Viktor Arvidsson, both proven goal scorers who can immediately contribute. Skinner, a six-time 30-goal scorer, and Arvidsson, a two-time 30-goal scorer, will be lining up with Leon Draisaitl, forming a potentially lethal trio. Early chemistry between these three could be a game-changer, providing the Oilers with much-needed secondary scoring.
Although Skinner and Arvidsson won’t feature on the top power-play unit, their contributions at even strength will be crucial. If they can get on the score sheet in their first game, it would boost their confidence and help solidify their place in the team.
3. **Stuart Skinner Must Be Sharp
A strong performance from Stuart Skinner in goal will be key to Edmonton’s success. Skinner has had a tendency to allow early goals in the past, and an early Jets strike could deflate the home crowd. He’ll need to make some solid saves early to settle into the game and build momentum.
Skinner will be facing off against Connor Hellebuyck, the reigning Vezina Trophy winner, which will make for an intense goaltending battle. The Oilers have a narrow 5-4-1 record against the Jets in their last 10 meetings, and many of these games have been decided by two goals or less. Skinner has a solid track record against Winnipeg, boasting a 4-0-1 record with a 2.01 GAA and a .932 save percentage. If he can match or exceed those numbers, the Oilers will be in good shape.
**Final Thoughts**
The Oilers have learned from last season’s mistakes and cannot afford another slow start. Last year, that early stumble cost them home-ice advantage in the playoffs, a factor that might have made the difference in the Stanley Cup Final. There’s little margin for error in the NHL, and getting off on the right foot is critical to their championship aspirations. It all starts with a win in their home opener against the Jets.
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