Blackhawks Face Oilers Amidst Injury Challenges on Road Trip

EDMONTON, Alberta — The Chicago Blackhawks continue their six-game road trip Saturday night, facing the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place. The Blackhawks fell to the Winnipeg Jets 6-3 in their last outing and are now looking to rebound against the Oilers, who are also struggling with injuries.

Connor Bedard has been a standout for the Blackhawks, leading the team with six goals, eight assists, and 14 points this season. Bedard, who posted two assists in the last game, has scored four goals and added three assists over the last three games. He is expected to be a key player as the Blackhawks look to exploit the Oilers’ defense.

In addition to Bedard, Andre Burakovsky has contributed significantly, registering seven points in 10 games this season. Burakovsky scored in back-to-back games and aims to extend his point streak to three games. Teuvo Teravainen has also been productive with nine points in 11 games.

The Blackhawks (5-4-2) sit in fifth place in the Central Division with 12 points, trailing the Dallas Stars by two points and the Winnipeg Jets by six. They have recorded a balanced score with offensive support from their top players. However, they must keep their composure and avoid penalties against a potent Oilers power play.

On the other hand, the Oilers (5-4-3) are dealing with injuries to key forwards, including Zach Hyman and Mattias Janmark. Despite the challenges, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl remain a formidable duo for Edmonton, contributing significantly to their team’s offense. McDavid leads with 11 assists while Draisaitl has eight goals this season.

Chicago’s head coach, Jeff Blashill, noted that the team must play a disciplined game to avoid giving the Oilers opportunities on the power play, where they excel. The Blackhawks have dropped their last outing but hope to change their fortunes as they look to secure crucial points on the road.

The game against the Oilers is set for 10 p.m. ET and can be seen on the Chicago Sports Network.