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The Edmonton Oilers secured a much-needed morale boost with a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory against the Montreal Canadiens. This victory is particularly significant as the Oilers had been struggling, having lost six of their last seven games, while the Canadiens entered the matchup riding high on a five-game winning streak.
Defenseman Evan Bouchard played a pivotal role in the game, scoring the decisive overtime goal and contributing an assist during regulation. “It was definitely a good feeling,” Bouchard remarked. “We needed to get a win to get back in the win column. That was a big one for myself and the team.”
Leon Draisaitl showcased his offensive prowess by netting his league-leading 46th goal and adding an assist, while Corey Perry also found the back of the net. Connor McDavid recorded two assists, highlighting his continuing impact on the game. “If you’re letting in two goals or less in a game, the chances are that you’re going to win it,” Bouchard added, emphasizing the importance of solid defensive play, which had been lacking in recent outings.
With only 6.9 seconds left in the overtime period, the Oilers clinched the game thanks to a well-executed setup by McDavid, who skated around the zone and delivered a precise pass to Bouchard. Bouchard’s shot beat Canadiens goalie Sam Montembeault, marking his 11th goal of the season.
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McDavid has been a critical factor, contributing to eight of the Oilers’ ten overtime goals this season. Head coach Kris Knoblauch expressed hope that this victory would help lift the team from its recent slump. “I think that’s guys feeling tight, guys not feeling confident,” he noted. “When things aren’t going well and you’re losing games, the execution lacks. I think we’re in the right direction right now.”
Goaltender Stuart Skinner, who has been seeking a boost to his confidence, made 26 saves and expressed his relief after the game: “It felt fantastic. I haven’t gotten a win in a while, obviously, so Bouch putting that puck in the net … I was extremely happy. I’ve got to realize that that’s an everyday thing for me, showing up that way and being able to play those types of games.” He also expressed optimism for sustaining his performance heading into the playoffs.
Max Jones, a forward recently acquired from the Boston Bruins, made a strong impression in his debut with the Oilers by registering his first assist with the team on a stretch pass that set up Perry’s goal. “I felt good. My game feels like it’s in a good spot. I just felt like I was playing like I was free out there,” Jones commented. He aimed to maintain a positive demeanor and contribute energetically on the ice for every shift.
In addition to Jones, the Oilers also received physical forward Trent Frederic in the trade, although he is currently recovering from an injury. Meanwhile, reports indicated that the Oilers were on the verge of finalizing a deal for defenseman Jake Walman from the San Jose Sharks, pending a post-game roster announcement.
Source
globalnews.ca