In a pre-season matchup against the Seattle Kraken, the Edmonton Oilers delivered an impressive performance, winning 4-1. The game showcased the talents of goaltender Jack Campbell, forward Xavier Bourgault, and defenseman Ben Gleason, leaving fans excited about the upcoming season.
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Campbell’s Spectacular Showing
Jack Campbell stood tall in the Oilers’ net, stopping 32 shots and allowing only a single goal in the game. This marked the second time this pre-season that Campbell demonstrated his prowess between the pipes, reaffirming his potential as a key asset for the team. After a challenging previous season, Campbell appears determined to bounce back.
Reflecting on his performance, Campbell expressed his enthusiasm about being back on the ice and praised the camaraderie among his teammates. He credited his summer efforts and the lessons learned from the previous season for his strong start. Oilers fans can rest assured that their goaltender is ready to compete at the highest level.
Xavier Bourgault’s Breakout Night
Xavier Bourgault emerged as a standout player in the game, contributing significantly to the Oilers’ victory. The young forward netted two goals, showcasing his versatility by scoring a rebound and executing a precise one-timer in the third period. Bourgault, who added 10 pounds to his frame over the summer, spoke of his improved confidence and playmaking abilities. His performance was a testament to his commitment to the team’s success.
The Loss of Brandon Sutter
While the Oilers celebrated their pre-season victory, there was a somber note with the news of Brandon Sutter ending his attempt at a comeback due to health concerns related to long Covid. Oilers’ General Manager Ken Holland confirmed that Sutter’s decision to end his professional tryout agreement was motivated by the return of long Covid symptoms, which would render him unable to play at the NHL level. Sutter’s career ends at age 34 after 770 games played for various NHL teams.
The Search for a 4C
Sutter’s departure leaves the Oilers with a void to fill at the fourth-line center position. Internal candidates like Lane Pederson and Derek Ryan are options, and the team will keep an eye on the waiver wire as teams finalize their rosters. The depth of the Oilers, with star players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, makes finding a suitable fourth-line center a manageable challenge for Holland.
Competition on the Blue Line
A notable development in the pre-season game was the impressive performance of defenseman Ben Gleason. Although his chances of securing a spot on the Oilers’ roster are slim, Gleason’s strong showing may make him the first call-up from the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors in case of injuries. Head Coach Jay Woodcroft praised Gleason’s confidence and ability to make clean plays during the game.
Conclusion
The Edmonton Oilers’ pre-season win over the Seattle Kraken provided a glimpse of the team’s potential for the upcoming season. Jack Campbell’s stellar goaltending, Xavier Bourgault’s offensive prowess, and Ben Gleason’s impressive defensive display offered plenty of reasons for optimism. While the team faces the challenge of finding a new fourth-line center, Oilers fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead, knowing that their team has several emerging stars and a determined roster ready to compete.
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