Oilers Need to Step it Up

Quick note before heading out for Game 3.

• The Jays are losing 5-zip in the top of the fourth. Ugh. This is only the second game of a seven-game homestand, so here's hoping it gets better. If this game ends with a Tigers victory, at least we won't have the suspense of watching the Jays try and actually sweep a series -- although, with that outcome known even before the game begins, it is not actually that suspensful.

Keys to Victory for Edmonton

• Block more shots. In game two, they blocked only ## shots, while Carolina saved Cam Ward from having to make an additional 24 saves. This is unacceptable coming from a defensive minded team with little confidence in their goaltender
• Quickness on special teams. The Canes move the puck around so quickly in the offensive zone, that it is very diffitcult for the Oilers to jump in the lanes. They will have to be quicker to be successful. The same goes for the power play. In game 2, we saw the Canes penality killers attack the Oilers forwards on the boards, and they were quick to get out to the point. If Edmonton is to better their 1-for-13 power play, they are going to have to move the puck.
• Oiler forechecking. Against Detroit, the Oilers utilized a 1-2-2 system to perfection, and this can work against the Canes, who play a similar offensive style to Detroit. At the end of game one and throughout game two, the Oilers were sending two men deep, and the Canes were just too good at getting the puck up to the forwards. And the Canes turned it up from there. Throw one guy deep, and keep strong pressure in the neutral zone, and you will see a lot more turnovers go Edmonton's way.

I am off! Keep yer stick on the ice.