The Edmonton Oilers have been on an unprecedented winning streak, winning 16 straight games. A review of this remarkable run reveals a combination of factors that have pushed the Oilers to these victories.
There are five key reasons why the Oilers have dominated the ice. It’s a remarkable accomplishment, and it shows just how good this team is. They are a unique blend of skill, strategy, and the resilience needed to overcome issues that stand in their way.
Five Reasons for the Oilers’ Winning Streak
On any winning streak this long, there’s a tendency for a team to win some games it should probably lose. Just like, during the regular season, there’s a tendency for a team to lose some games it should win. A tremendous amount of luck is involved.
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However, it can’t all be luck when a team goes on such a record-setting, winning streak. The team has to be solid, while at the same time, things have had to come together almost perfectly. That’s exactly what has happened to the Oilers during their last 16 games.
By analyzing each of the victories, some general reasons pop out as to why the Oilers are on such a heater. These reasons are explained below.
Reason One: The Oilers Have the Offensive Power to Win
The Oilers’ offensive scoring, led by stars like Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Zach Hyman, has been a driving force. McDavid’s exceptional speed and playmaking ability have been coupled with an effective power play to push the scoring. McDavid has consistently contributed to goals, setting the tone for his team’s success. That’s exactly what the best player in the NHL should do; and, he has.
Reason Two: The Oilers Have Goaltending Excellence
Stuart Skinner has been great recently. Even better, his backup goalie Calvin Pickard has been excellent in relief. Both goalies have stood tall in the net.
Skinner has put up a remarkable 19-2 record in his last 21 starts. In combination, these two goalies’ stellar performances, especially in close games, have provided a crucial foundation for the Oilers to get wins even when facing deficits.
Reason Three: The Oilers Have the Defensive Strength
The Oilers’ defensive unit has probably been the surprise of the season. Last season, the team relied on offensive superiority and a strong power play. This season they have established an impressive record defensively, as well.
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They held opponents to two goals or fewer in a franchise-record 14 straight games. The team’s defense has been a linchpin in its overall success. It’s much easier to win when your team’s defense prevents opponents from scoring as much. That has been the case.
Reason Four: The Oilers Have Had Solid Special Teams Play
The Oilers have been proficient in special teams, particularly on the power play. This success, for the Oilers, has regularly been a game-changer. Despite occasional struggles, the team’s ability to score on critical power-play opportunities, along with an impressive penalty kill, has been instrumental in clinching victories for the team.
Reason Five: The Oilers Have Had Balanced Contributions
The Oilers’ success is not solely reliant on its star players. The team has many other contributors. These include Zach Hyman, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Evan Bouchard, and Evander Kane. These players help the team put together a balanced offensive attack.
Additionally, the team has put together strong third-period performances. In general, positive team dynamics and the strategic adjustments by the Oilers’ coaching staff have worked together to increase the team’s ability to overcome challenges and put together wins.
The Bottom Line: Why Have the Oilers Been Winning So Much
In summary, the Oilers’ historic 16-game winning streak is the result of a combination of offensive firepower, exceptional goaltending, strong team defense, effective special teams play, and a well-rounded, team approach where the coaches have been able to adapt to the needs of the game.
