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Edmonton Oilers Gear Up for Home Ice Advantage Against San Jose Sharks

As the Edmonton Oilers prepare to host the San Jose Sharks at Rogers Place, fans are anticipating a game that could leverage home ice to the Oilers' advantage. The recent performance of the Oilers suggests they are in a position to capitalize on their strengths and continue their positive trend.


Dec 28, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Sharks center Ryan Carpenter (22) tries to deflect the puck Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner (74) makes the save during the second period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports

Looking at past games, we see a team that has been performing with consistency and vigor. In their last encounter against the St. Louis Blues, despite an overtime loss with a final score of 2-3, the Oilers demonstrated resilience and an even-strength goal-scoring ability. They managed to secure 38 shots on goal but were slightly edged out in faceoff win percentage at 44 percent.


In contrast, when facing off against Anaheim Ducks at home, the Oilers showcased offensive prowess with an impressive 6-1 victory. Their shooting percentage was notably high at 16 percent, coupled with a dominant faceoff win percentage of 64 percent—factors that contributed significantly to their triumph.


Dec 28, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; Edmonton Oilers left wing Zach Hyman (18) celebrates after the goal during the first period against the San Jose Sharks at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports

The trend continued as they battled it out against Los Angeles Kings; another home game where they emerged victorious with a scoreline of 4-1. The team's physicality was evident through their high hit count while maintaining an effective shooting percentage of 20 percent.


These statistics indicate that Edmonton is finding ways to maximize scoring opportunities while also holding strong in defensive play—a balance that will be crucial against San Jose Sharks' strategies.


Dec 28, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) checks San Jose Sharks defenseman Kyle Burroughs (4) to dislodge the puck during the first period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports

As we approach this matchup, fans should watch for how Edmonton leverages its faceoff wins and whether they can maintain or improve upon their shooting accuracy under pressure from the Sharks' defense. Additionally, special teams could play a pivotal role; powerplay efficiency might just tip the scales in what promises to be an engaging contest between these two teams.


The upcoming game is scheduled for April 16th at Rogers Place in Edmonton and will be broadcasted on ESPN+ online and NBCS-CA TV network for those tuning in from afar.

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