Reasons Stack Up as Struggling Oilers Fall Apart in Shocking Loss to Avalanche 

Reasons Stack Up as Struggling Oilers Fall Apart in Shocking Loss to Avalanche

EDMONTON The recent defeat of the Edmonton Oilers wasn’t just a simple loss it was a total breakdown. After a humiliating 8-0 loss at home to the Colorado Avalanche, the only thing that seemed to increase faster than the goals scored against them were the excuses being made.

Trent Frederic, who hasn’t contributed much since he joined the team at last season’s trade deadline, tried to explain why he hasn’t been noticeable on the ice. “I’m trying to check my way out of it,” he said after yet another game where he went unnoticed. With just one point in 15 games, Frederic suggested that no one wants to “fight a guy who has one goal in 15 games. ” That’s a convenient excuse for not providing the energy he was supposed to bring.

On the other hand, forward Andrew Mangiapane who used to be known for his tough playing style sounded just as unmotivated. When questioned about bringing more drive to his game, his answer was pretty lackluster: “Just going out there being tenacious, hard work. And if that comes, that comes. ” Those don’t sound like the words of someone eager to make things better.

Defenceman Jake Walman recognized that the team’s attitude has dropped. “Maybe we think it’s going to come easy,” he said, admitting that there’s a lack of commitment and effort.

Head coach Kris Knoblauch was straightforward. “I hope this is the lowest point,” he stated. “We have a lot to improve if we want to be a good hockey team. ”

The stats confirm that. Goalie Stuart Skinner’s save percentage has fallen to . 889, and after two easy goals from Cale Makar early in the game, the Oilers seemed mentally checked out. Whether they gave up on Skinner or on themselves, it was obvious that there’s less confidence in the goal.

Even Knoblauch’s defense of Skinner after the game felt weak, with a long pause before he weakly denied that the team has lost faith in their starting goalie.

But the troubles aren’t just in goal. Edmonton’s structure has fallen apart. The fourth line made up of small, inexperienced forwards brings little energy or toughness. Once again, McDavid and Draisaitl were relied upon for nearly everything, which is becoming a pattern that is hurting the team.

As one local sports commentator put it, “This was the kind of game that clearly shows you exactly where you’re failing. ”

Unfortunately for the Oilers, that “where” looks much farther away from a playoff team than anyone in Edmonton wants to acknowledge.