Stuart Skinner’s stellar performance leads the Oilers to a thrilling 1-0 win against the Kings, showcasing playoff intensity.
The game felt like a playoff match, with both teams really going at it. Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner was incredible, leading the team to a tight 1-0 win. He said it was exciting because both teams know each other so well.
Since late November, the Oilers and Kings have been among the top teams in the NHL. Edmonton got back at L.A. for a previous loss, and they’ve had the Kings’ number in the playoffs for the last three years.
In their last 32 matchups, the Oilers have won 21 times. It’s always a close game, but Edmonton usually comes out on top. Connor McDavid scored the only goal of the night, and he mentioned how they played smart and patient to secure the win.
The Kings used to play a style that was pretty dull, but they’ve changed things up a bit. Now, they’re tough to score against, allowing the fewest goals in the league. But the Oilers weren’t fooled by their new approach.
Leon Draisaitl pointed out that both teams know how to play against each other, which makes for some intense games. The night kicked off with a huge save from Skinner, stopping a two-on-one chance from the Kings that could have changed everything.
Skinner’s 31 saves were crucial for the Oilers, especially since they were a bit tired. He’s been fantastic after losses, and he really stepped up this time.
Things shifted when McDavid made a solid hit on a Kings player, leading to a four-on-four situation that favored the Oilers. McDavid praised Draisaitl for his outstanding play lately, saying he’s been on fire.
Kings coach Jim Hiller wasn’t thrilled about the penalties that led to the four-on-four, but he acknowledged that his team played hard overall. Laferriere, who took a bad penalty, barely saw any ice time after that.
When asked about it, Hiller just shrugged it off. Sometimes, that’s just how the game goes.
