Oilers seek fourth straight win against league-leading Jets
The Edmonton Oilers aim to extend their three-game win streak as they prepare for a matchup against the Winnipeg Jets. The Oilers last played on Tuesday, defeating the Utah Hockey Club 7-1. With a record of 40-24-4, Edmonton is feeling confident heading into the game at Rogers Place. The Jets, with a record of 47-18-4, currently lead the NHL. At home, the Oilers have a solid record of 21-11-2 this season, while the Jets have performed well on the road with a 22-13-0 record. Edmonton's recent success has been credited to all four lines working effectively together and a strong defensive effort, particularly after adding Jake Walman to their lineup. Darnell Nurse, a defenseman for the Oilers, highlighted the effectiveness of both the team's penalty kill and goaltending. Mattias Ekholm recently returned from injury, and winger Zach Hyman also came back in the last game. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins has been a standout player, recording six points in the last two games. He commented on the unpredictable nature of scoring in hockey. Head coach Kris Knoblauch noted that Nugent-Hopkins has had more puck touches since playing at center lately. Together, goaltenders Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard have combined for an impressive save percentage during this winning streak. In the last ten games, the Oilers have a record of 6-4-0, while the Jets sit at 5-4-1. In a special moment, Prime Minister Mark Carney, an Edmonton native, joined the Oilers for their morning skate on Thursday. He wore an Oilers jersey with his name on it. Carney is in Alberta for meetings with Premier Danielle Smith and to make a housing announcement in Edmonton.