However, it will be an uphill battle. To become a better team is one thing, but to be better than 7 other teams is a considerably tougher task to follow. This team has many glaring weaknesses and any fan can list them: Poor defense from the forwards, an inability to get shots on net, terrible face offs, poor discipline, and a lack of grit. These are small parts of the game that help build a championship team. However, having visible weaknesses allows management to identify players that can be obtained through acquisitions.
Major deals prior to the trade deadline should put them into the playoffs. The Oilers have received plenty of support from the goaltending position. Facing more than 30 shots a night, Dubnyk has been stellar and it appears that Khabibulin has accepted his back-up role with professionalism and confidence. He is healthy, and although he has had just one appearance because of injuries, he has proven he is back and ready to help the Oilers make the playoffs.
The Oilers possess gifted forwards such as Eberle and Gagner, the latter on a contract year. Their top six forwards may be small, but their speed will allow them to overcome big, strong defensemen on the rush. By sticking to their game, they can control the pace with their youth. A high-tempo game suits the youthful Oilers just fine. And as they continue to develop and focus on their strengths, I believe that their transition game and fore-checking will improve.
Another reason the Oilers have a good shot is the continued weakness of their division. Minnesota made a big splash with huge signings, but it has not been the “It” factor that the Wild thought they needed. Calgary and Colorado are still not contenders. That leaves the perennial Canucks as heavy division leader favourites. However, many analysts predict that the time for the Canucks is passing, which leaves the door wide open for the Edmonton Oilers. Divisional placement is huge in the NHL. Many times we have seen division leaders claim third in the conference simply because their division was weak, and although that is not the best way to make the playoffs, any missteps by the Canucks is an opportunity for the Oilers.
Don't agree? Want a different perspective. Check out Nico's blog at EDMFlavor and see who you agree with!
1 comment:
As much as having another first round pick would be nice, there's a time where you gotta look at the talent you have and the results you're getting. With the guys we got on the ice, I don't think it's an issue of needing more talented players, it's about getting our players to play together as a cohesive unit.
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