Published Apr 23, 2025
The Edmonton Oilers are back on the ice tonight at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles for Game 2 of their first-round series against the Los Angeles Kings. After a high-scoring and heartbreaking 6–5 loss in Game 1, the Oilers are looking to bounce back and even the series before it shifts to Edmonton.
This is a critical game. Lose tonight, and the Oilers head home down 0–2. Win, and they’ve got home ice adavantage.
Game 1 gave us a look at Edmonton’s offensive firepower, but also raised questions about lineup balance and defensive structure. With a couple of players nearing returns and coaching decisions to be made, here are some key lineup options for tonight:
Could Evander Kane Return? There’s buzz around a possible return for Evander Kane. He’s been skating with the team and trending in the right direction, but hasn’t been officially cleared. If he plays, expect him to bring physicality and a scoring touch to the second or third line — a welcome addition against a gritty Kings squad.
Blue Line in Flux: With Mattias Ekholm still unavailable, the Oilers might turn to veteran John Klingberg, who’s been practicing and could draw in tonight. His offensive upside would help with zone exits, but he hasn’t played in weeks — so rust is a concern.
McDavid-Draisaitl: Together or Apart? One of the biggest questions: Should the Oilers stack Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl on one line, or split them to drive more balanced offense? In Game 1, Knoblauch had them together for stretches, and the results were explosive — but that also left the depth lines thin. If Kane is available, it might give the staff the confidence to spread their top stars out again.
Goaltending: Stick With Skinner? Stuart Skinner gave up six goals in Game 1, but is expected to get the nod again. The team believes in him, and this isn’t the time to panic. The focus will be on tightening up in front of him, better gap control, and clearing traffic from the crease.
Oilerhockey is in no way affiliated with the NHL or the Edmonton Oilers hockey club.
Copyright © 2009 - 2025 oilerhockey.com | Contact us at admin@oilerhockey.com | View our Privacy Policy or DMCA Policy