GDB 39.0: Oilers-Calgary Rematch: Battle of Alberta Heats Up Again
The Edmonton Oilers invade the Scotiabank Saddledome for the second installment of the Battle of Alberta in just four days, with the Flames looking to avenge their 5-1 loss on Tuesday. Here’s what you need to know before tonight’s showdown (8PM MT, CBC).
Recent Form
- Edmonton (19-13-6) enters the game with one of the league’s hottest offenses, averaging a staggering 3.42 goals per game. The Oilers have won eight of their last ten games and are seeking their first three-game win streak of the season.
- Calgary (15-18-4), on the other hand, has struggled to find consistent scoring. The Flames have won just six of their last ten games and sit just out of the playoff picture. loro, once again, are stuck in the middle of the pack, with their power play struggling near the bottom of the league.
However, don’t dismiss the Flames just yet. Despite their mediocrity, Calgary boasts solid possession metrics and can keep games close, even if they don’t end up victorious. But the difference-maker in this matchup? Special teams.
Special Teams Showdown
- Edmonton’s power play is nearly three times as effective as Calgary’s, operating at a league-leading 34.3% compared to the Flames’ 13.6%. If this game gets chippy – and history suggests it will – expect Edmonton’s power play to factor heavily.
- Leon Draisaitl’s recent hat trick on the power play is a perfect example of this advantage. The Oilers’ top guns have the potential to make the Flames pay for any penalties taken.
Goaltending Matchup
- Connor Ingram gets his third straight start in net for the Oilers, with Tristan Jarry still sidelined. Ingram has impressed in his short stint with Edmonton, going 2-0 with a 2.00 GAA and .920 SV%. He’ll face another test tonight against the team he shut down just days ago.
- For the Flames, Dan Vladar is expected to start. Vladar has struggled this season, posting a 3.05 GAA and .897 SV% in 26 games.
Despite their recent struggles, Calgary will be eager to bounce back and prove they’re a formidable foe in the Battle of Alberta. Expect a lively atmosphere and some heated exchanges between these two provincial rivals.
Lineup Notes
- No changes expected. Connor Ingram gets the start in goal.
- Expect the Flames to come out physical and try to set the tone early. They may not be in playoff contention, but they’re still capable of handing the Oilers a loss.
What They’re Saying…
“The Flames need to stay out of the box and keep things at five-on-five if they want a chance in this hockey game.”
“We’re not anticipating many changes for the Oilers. It’s day-of travel for Edmonton, who are flying down prior to Saturday’s morning skate.”
Game Day Prediction
- Game Day Prediction: Despite Calgary’s best efforts, Edmonton’s talent and hot hand prevail. Oilers win 4-2.
- Obvious Game Day Prediction: At least one fight is inevitable in the Battle of Alberta. Keep an eye on HockeyFights.com for replays.
- Not-So-Obvious Game Day Prediction: Alecськіl signs a game-winner in style on the power play, backed by a steady Connor Ingram performance.