Team Canada and the Edmonton Oilers are facing the same struggle and the Oilers need to act
Photo credit: Imagn Images
Team Canada played hard but fell to Team USA in the 4 Nations Faceoff last night, with goaltending playing a big role in the defeat like it has for the Edmonton Oilers this season.
While Canada has elite talent up front and on the blue line, their goaltending remains their weakest position and is a concern that mirrors Edmonton's struggles in net.
While Binnington made good saves throughout the game, that one extra goal made the difference between a potential overtime battle and a regulation loss.
Credit also goes to Team USA's shutdown defense and the excellent play of
Connor Hellebuyck, but an early weak goal allowed the Americans to settle into a defensive rhythm and making life even tougher for Canada's offense.
With Canada also missing their top three defensemen, their goaltending had to be even sharper, and he wasn't and that's what led to the defeat that happened last night.
After some shaky moments against Sweden as well, there's a growing chance Team Canada turns to
Adin Hill against Finland.
Similarly, the Oilers might need to reflect on this game and consider whether their current goalie tandem can truly carry them through big games in playoff matchups.
One soft goal in a tight game can be the difference between a championship run and an early exit, so it's a confirmation that the Edmonton Oilers needs to make a move and replace their goalie tandem.
Previously on Oilers Central
POLL |
FEVRIER 16 | 338 ANSWERS Team Canada and the Edmonton Oilers are facing the same struggle and the Oilers need to act Do you think the Edmonton Oilers should take an example from Team Canada and change goalies? |
Yes | 223 | 66 % |
No | 115 | 34 % |
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