The Edmonton Oilers achieved their first three-game win streak of the season with an exhilarating come-from-behind victory over the San Jose Sharks. The Oilers scored a 4-3 win in overtime, marking a significant milestone after a challenging start to the season.
In a game that reflected the current trend of high-scoring performances in the NHL, the Oilers found themselves down 2-0 just 1:35 into the match and 3-0 by the end of the first period. However, they rallied back with three goals in the third period, two of which came with the goalie pulled, before Zach Hyman sealed the victory with a powerful one-timer in overtime.
Oilers fans have learned not to switch off the television after a rocky start, and this game was no exception. With just 3:05 left in regulation, the Oilers scored their first goal, followed by another with only 59 seconds remaining to force the game into overtime. “We have a lot of great players in the room and we”re never out of a game,” Hyman commented after netting his 22nd goal in 36 games this season. “There is a sense of belief that we can do it.”
It took the Oilers ten attempts to finally string together three consecutive wins this season, a stark contrast to their ability to win three games in a row seven times during last spring”s playoffs. Nevertheless, the presence of high-end talent in the lineup means that no game is truly out of reach, even when trailing 3-0 after two periods.
The Sharks, led by emerging star Macklin Celebrini, are in a rebuilding phase but showed competitiveness against the Oilers. Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky noted the challenge of facing such an elite offensive team, stating, “You have to defend the two best players in the world. We did some good things, and we did some things we could get better at.”
Despite the setback, the Sharks are beginning to learn how to win, a crucial development for a young team that has struggled in recent years. “It”s fun to watch,” said Connor Ingram, the Oilers” goalie who kept his team in the game after a shaky start. “When you”ve got some of the best players in the world, you just have to make the saves you”re supposed to.”
Hyman also acknowledged the Sharks” effort, saying, “I like that we stuck with it, but obviously we can clean up lots. That”s just what comes with being more urgent and competitive. They outworked us for two periods.”
The Oilers” ability to field a potent six-on-five unit featuring stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl means that opposing teams often feel the pressure when faced with their offensive prowess. “I”m sure it”s terrifying,” said Kasperi Kapanen of the Sharks. “When you”ve got world-class players like that putting pressure on you for an extended period of time, eventually it”s going to go in.”
As the Oilers continue to find their rhythm, they are reminded that no lead is safe when facing a team with their firepower. The Sharks, while still learning, are gaining valuable experience that will eventually help them climb back into contention.
