Opinion
3 min read

Can the Oilers Tame the Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena?

As the Edmonton Oilers prepare to face off against the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena, fans are eager to see if their team can continue their recent high-scoring trend. The Oilers have been on a rollercoaster ride of performances, but one thing has remained consistent: their ability to find the back of the net.


Jan 18, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Seattle Kraken defensemen Justin Schultz (4) blocks a shot in front of goaltender Joey Daccord (35) during the first period at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game against the Arizona Coyotes on February 19, 2024, Edmonton showcased an offensive clinic, putting up six goals with a shooting percentage of 23 percent. Their powerplay capitalized once in two opportunities and they dominated faceoffs with a winning percentage of 58 percent. This kind of performance is what fans have come to expect from an Oilers team that prides itself on its attacking prowess.


However, it's not just about scoring goals; goaltending and defense play crucial roles in securing wins. The Oilers' goalie was impenetrable last game, saving all but three shots for a save percentage that rounded up perfectly. If this level of goaltending continues against Seattle, combined with Edmonton's offensive firepower, it could spell trouble for the Kraken.


Jan 18, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl (29) looks to make a pass in front of Seattle Kraken forward Andre Burakovsky (95) during the third period at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

The opposing team isn't without merit though. While less dominant in recent outings compared to EDM's performance against Arizona, Seattle will be looking to leverage home advantage and create an upset. It's worth noting that even when faced with adversity as seen in their overtime win over Dallas Stars on February 17 where they scored four goals and had a powerplay goal during overtime – showing resilience under pressure – something that could be pivotal when facing off against Edmonton.


It would be remiss not to mention Edmonton’s less stellar moments like their loss to St. Louis Blues on February 16 where they suffered due to penalties taking nine total which led them vulnerable especially during powerplays where they conceded two goals out of eight opportunities given by them.


Jan 18, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; The Edmonton Oilers celebrate a goal scored by forward Warren Foegele (37) against the Seattle Kraken during the second period at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

Looking ahead at this matchup between EDM and SEA there are key factors for success: maintaining discipline avoiding unnecessary penalties which can shift momentum quickly; continued excellence from goaltenders providing stability at back; exploiting powerplays chances efficiently as special teams often decide tight games.


Fans should mark their calendars for March 2nd when these two teams clash at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle starting at 9:00 PM UTC (4:00 PM EST). The game promises excitement and will be available nationally via ESPN+ online streaming or through ROOT Sports NW channel number 687 for those watching from home territory.

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