Oilers Face Jets in Final Regular Season Showdown

WINNIPEG, MB — The Edmonton Oilers aim to extend their winning streak as they face the Winnipeg Jets at Canada Life Centre on Sunday, marking the final meeting of the season between the two teams.

The Oilers secured their spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs with a 4-2 victory over the San Jose Sharks on Friday, marking their sixth consecutive playoff appearance. With three games remaining in the regular season, including this Sunday’s matchup, they are still vying for home-ice advantage in the playoff series against the Los Angeles Kings. “The NHL schedule, it’s a grind,” said Head Coach Kris Knoblauch. “But the guys have been focused despite battling through injuries.”

The Jets, on their part, clinched the top position in the Central Division and Western Conference with a dramatic 5-4 shootout win against the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday. They are currently riding a three-game winning streak, setting the stage for a highly competitive contest against the Oilers, who have historically performed well in Winnipeg, winning three of their last four games in the city.

This game represents a pivotal moment for both teams. The Oilers struggle with injuries, including the absence of key players such as Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Zach Hyman, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. Despite these setbacks, they managed to win five of their last seven games. Corey Perry, who scored the game-winning goal against the Sharks, emphasized the need for the remaining players to step up. “You want everybody healthy, but there’s nothing you can do,” he said. “You have to rally around the guys that are on the ice and come together.”

McDavid’s return, however, has made a significant impact as he assisted on seven of the team’s last eight goals since his comeback. Perry noted, “He’s the best player in the world for a reason.” The Oilers are expected to rely on Stuart Skinner in goal, who dressed for the first time since March 26, indicating his readiness to take on the Jets.

In the lineup changes, Edmonton has recalled defenceman Cam Dineen and forward Derek Ryan from the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors due to injuries to other players. The Jets, facing minimal injuries, will aim to capitalize on their full roster as they gear up for the playoffs.

With both teams bringing high stakes to this final regular season game, the puck drops at 7 p.m. ET. Sportsnet will broadcast the game live, giving fans an opportunity to witness a critical matchup as both teams prepare for the postseason.