Anaheim Ducks vs. Edmonton Oilers Preview

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Anaheim Ducks head to Western Canada for back-to-back games on Sunday and Monday. The Ducks will first face the Edmonton Oilers tonight and then the Vancouver Canucks tomorrow. Anaheim is one point up ahead of the San Jose Sharks for the Pacific Division lead.

Game starts at 5:00 p.m.

Season Series: 3-0-1

Last Match-Up: 3-2      (Apr. 2, 2014)

The last time these two teams met, the Ducks were trailing 2-0 at the beginning of the third period. Corey Perry scored two goals to tie the game at 2-2. Francois Beauchemin would score the game-winner in the final minutes of the game to complete the comeback win 3-2.

Keys to the Game:

1. First Period: The Ducks can’t let the opposing team score multiple goals in the beginning of the game. They may be able to come back in a regular season game, but it will be much more difficult in the playoffs.

2. Defense: The Ducks need to prevent odd man rushes and clear defenders out in front of their net. Too many opposing players have been getting to the crease with ease.

1. Cycle: The Oilers need to maintain possession of the puck in this game. If they can get the cycle going and tire the Ducks defense then they have a chance to create scoring opportunities.

2. Physical: The Oilers need to stay physical and check the Ducks players each time so they can to keep Anaheim off its’ game, especially during 5-on-5 play.

Who To Watch:

1. Mathieu Perreault had an assist in the last game. He has scored at least one point in nine of his last ten games.

2. Ryan Getzlaf has five points in his last five games. He leads the team in total points with 84.

1. Taylor Hall has seven points in his last five games. He leads the team with 26 goals.

2. Jordan Eberle has three goals in his last five games. He leads the team in power play goals with seven total.

Starting Goalies:

 Jonas Hiller: 29-12-7, 2.46 GAA, .911 SV%

 Viktor Fasth: 2-2-1, 2.81 GAA, .896 SV%

Team Stats:

50-19-8, 108 points (Last 10: 6-3-1)

27-42-9, 63 points (Last 10: 4-6-0)

The Ducks are in a tight race with the San Jose Sharks for the Pacific Division title. The Ducks still control their destiny and can win the Pacific Division regardless of what the Sharks do. The team does need to fine tune a few aspects of their game in order to go deep in the playoffs.

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