Oilers Aim for Playoff Spot Against Sharks on Friday Night

EDMONTON, AB – The Edmonton Oilers will take on the San Jose Sharks tonight at Rogers Place in a crucial matchup that could secure their playoff berth for the sixth consecutive year. Puck drop is set for 9:30 p.m. ET, and fans can catch the action on Sportsnet or the Oilers Radio Network.

With a win or a Calgary Flames loss, the Oilers will clinch their position in the Stanley Cup Playoffs following a thrilling 4-3 victory over the St. Louis Blues on Wednesday. Connor Brown scored the game-winning goal with just 21 seconds left in regulation, assisted by captain Connor McDavid, who returned to the lineup after an eight-game absence.

“Coming back from injury is mentally challenging for any athlete, especially in hockey,” McDavid said after the win. “It’s nice to get that out of the way and focus on the playoffs ahead.”

This evening’s game marks the second of three encounters between the Oilers and Sharks within 14 days, with Edmonton having previously secured a 3-2 win in San Jose earlier this month. The regular-season series will conclude against the Sharks in San Jose next Wednesday.

The Oilers faced adversity earlier this season, needing an overtime goal from Leon Draisaitl to win the December 21 matchup against the Sharks after outshooting them 42-22. This season has seen injuries plague the Oilers, compelling them to play with only five defensemen in Wednesday’s victory.

Despite the injuries, Head Coach Kris Knoblauch praised the resilience of the remaining players. “All those five played really well in stepping up. They put in a really good game,” he noted. Edmonton will add a sixth blueliner, with Stuart Skinner returning to the net after his own injury.

Skinner’s status will be confirmed during the morning skate, but if he plays, it will mark his first game since March 26. Calvin Pickard has maintained a solid record in Skinner’s absence, posting a 4-2-0 record with a 2.83 goals-against average.

Entering Friday’s matchup, the Oilers have been dominant against the Sharks, winning 12 of the last 13 games, outscoring them 60-24 in that span. Edmonton also boasts a six-game winning streak at home against San Jose, setting the stage for another anticipated showdown.

The Oilers need seamless teamwork and fortitude from all players to prepare for the upcoming playoffs, as McDavid emphasized the importance of being ready for the post-season. “I know I’m doing everything I can. We’ll figure it out,” he concluded.