In Seattle, Stuart Skinner delivered an impressive goaltending performance for the Edmonton Oilers, making 24 saves that were crucial in securing a 2-1 win against the Seattle Kraken on Saturday. Skinner stood tall especially in key moments at the beginning of the match when the Oilers were settling into play, and during a frantic final minute where he made several game-saving stops.
Leon Draisaitl found the back of the net for his 30th goal of the season, thanks to the NHL-leading 73rd assist from teammate Connor McDavid. Brett Kulak also contributed to the scoreboard with a third-period goal that would ultimately hold as the game-winner. The Oilers have now extended their win streak to three games, continuing to apply pressure on Vegas for second place in the Pacific Division.
“I definitely felt good. Felt good right off the bat,” said Skinner. “I got into the game pretty quickly. I think their first two chances were pretty good ones and when you stop both of them you tend to feel a little bit better about the night.”
The Oilers completed a season series sweep against the Kraken and have continued their dominance since Seattle entered the league with a 9-2-0 overall record in their matchups. Draisaitl’s signature goal came in the second period, with Kulak finding the net later in the third. Kulak’s blue-line shot seemed to take a deflection, eluding Seattle goaltender Philipp Grubauer.
“It always feels good contributing that way. It doesn’t happen all the time, but when you see one go in it feels good,” commented Kulak. “It was a tight game. It was close. There wasn’t too many goals happening and it proved to be a big one.”
Kulak’s pivotal moment followed another significant save from Skinner, who has emerged as a thorn in Seattle’s side. With seven wins in nine career starts against the Kraken, including a clean sweep this season, Skinner has demonstrated his effectiveness in net.
Seattle’s Eeli Tolvanen was able to penetrate Skinner’s defense, scoring his 15th of the season on a power play to challenge the potential shutout. In the last minute, Skinner displayed his agility and reflexes, shutting down multiple Kraken attempts to tie the game, including a shot from Jordan Eberle.
While the Kraken’s Grubauer recorded 22 saves, the team’s collective effort wasn’t enough to avert a regulation loss, which puts a strain on their Western Conference wild-card race prospects as the trade deadline looms.
“It’s frustrating obviously when you only score one goal,” said Jaden Schwartz of the Kraken. “Need results this time of the year. Obviously, could have gone either way.”
What’s Next?
The Edmonton Oilers will be hosting the Pittsburgh Penguins on Sunday, while the Seattle Kraken face the Calgary Flames away on Monday.
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FAQ:
- How many goals has Leon Draisaitl scored this season?
As of the game against the Seattle Kraken, Leon Draisaitl has scored 30 goals this season. - Did Stuart Skinner achieve a shutout against the Kraken?
No, Skinner nearly had a shutout but was scored on by Eeli Tolvanen in a power-play scenario. - How did the Oilers perform against the Kraken this season?
The Oilers swept all four games in the season series against the Seattle Kraken. - What does this win mean for the Oilers?
This win keeps the pressure on the Vegas Golden Knights for second place in the Pacific Division and adds momentum as the team pursues a playoff position.
Conclusion:
Stuart Skinner’s goaltending prowess and key contributions from Leon Draisaitl and Brett Kulak propelled the Edmonton Oilers to a narrow victory over the Seattle Kraken. Despite a solid effort from the Kraken, they couldn’t overtake the Oilers’ defense, leaving them to ponder strategies as the trade deadline approaches. The Oilers, on the other hand, continue their pursuit of a strong finish in the Pacific Division, bolstered by team unity and determined play.