What Happened
Edmonton wrapped up its exhibition schedule with a 4-1 win over Calgary, finishing the pre-season with four victories in four games. The Oilers surrendered five goals across those four games, three at even strength. Kasperi Kapanen recorded a goal and an assist in the win, and Zach Hyman scored on Edmonton's only power-play chance of the night.
Key Details
- Edmonton finished the pre-season 4-0 and outscored opponents while allowing five goals total.
- Three of the five goals against came at even strength.
- Kapanen posted a goal and an assist against Calgary.
- McDavid had 2-2-4 in two pre-season games; Bouchard had 0-5-5 in two games.
- Jarry and Levi both turned in strong pre-season showings.
- Edmonton's power play went 1-for-1 Saturday on Hyman's goal.
What It Means
The Oilers enter the regular season with their defensive structure and goaltending looking ready, after a pre-season in which they gave up little at even strength. Edmonton's top producers, including McDavid and Bouchard, also showed they are in form. The question is whether that defensive standard holds once the games count, starting with Vancouver.
What's Next
Edmonton opens the regular season with a Tuesday-Thursday home-and-home against the Vancouver Canucks, the first test of whether its pre-season defensive play carries over.