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NHL 2023-24: Edmonton Oilers vs Vancouver Canucks - Preview and Prediction

Overview

The 2023-24 NHL season is in full swing, and on Wednesday, October 11, a riveting Pacific Division duel awaits. The Vancouver Canucks will be hosting the formidable Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Arena. The game is slated to commence at 10:00 PM ET.

Edmonton Oilers: The Powerhouse Offense

Performance Recap

Last season, the Oilers showcased their might by securing a 50-23-9 record, clinching the second spot in the Pacific Division. Their playoff journey witnessed a triumphant six-game series win over the LA Kings, only to be halted by the eventual champions, Vegas Golden Knights, in the subsequent round.

Star Players

Edmonton's offensive prowess is headlined by none other than Connor McDavid who amassed an awe-inspiring 153 points in the previous season. Supported by Leon Draisaitl and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, who garnered 128 and 104 points respectively, the Oilers topped the league charts in goals per game and power-play efficiency. However, defensively, they placed in the middle-to-lower tier of the league.

Goalie Outlook

Stuart Skinner is anticipated to be the shield between the posts against the Canucks. His last season stats boast a 2.75 GAA and a save percentage of .914. When facing Vancouver, his record stands at 1-1-0.

Vancouver Canucks: The Underdogs

Last Season Digest

The Canucks finished the previous season sixth in the Pacific Division with a 38-37-7 record. Their offense was decent, placing them 13th in the NHL for goals per game. Yet, defensively they faltered, ending up 25th for goals conceded and holding the least impressive penalty-killing rate.

Key Players

Elias Pettersson is the shining star for Vancouver, accumulating 102 points last season. He was aptly supported by J.T. Miller and rookie sensation Andrei Kuzmenko. However, their goalkeeping was a weak link. Thatcher Demko, who's set to guard the net against the Oilers, recorded a GAA of 3.16 last season.

Prediction