The Edmonton Oilers are facing a must-win situation tonight at Rogers Place, trailing the Anaheim Ducks 3-1 in their playoff series. With their season on the line, head coach Kris Knoblauch has confirmed that goaltender Connor Ingram will start, while captain Connor McDavid's availability remains uncertain due to an ankle injury.
Ingram Returns to Net
Ingram, who allowed 14 goals over the first three games of the series, was replaced by Tristan Jarry for Game 4. Jarry performed admirably, stopping 34 of 38 shots in a 4-3 overtime loss. However, Knoblauch emphasized the decision to return to Ingram was based on his consistent performance down the stretch.
“Nothing against Jarry, I thought he had a solid game the other night,” said Knoblauch. “But going down the last few weeks, or months, Ingram’s been our starter, he’s been our guy. Now that our season is on the line we felt we would go with our guy.”
McDavid's Status Uncertain
McDavid has been hampered by an ankle injury, limiting him to 19:32 of ice time in Game 4. He has recorded one goal and three assists in the series. Forward Jason Dickinson also missed the morning skate and is considered a game-time decision. Despite the uncertainty, it is widely expected that McDavid will play, though likely not at full capacity.
“They’re both game-time decisions,” Knoblauch said. “Obviously, injuries are affecting how we’re playing. But there are a lot of teams who have injuries and they continue to play well.”
Secondary Scoring Needed
With key players banged up, the Oilers need contributions from their secondary scorers. Jack Roslovic and Matt Savoie each have one assist in four games, while Ryan Nugent-Hopkins has managed only two even-strength points. Knoblauch stressed the importance of everyone stepping up.
“It’s fair to say that anytime you’re missing somebody you need to have somebody stepping up,” he said. “We have some guys who are banged up, but they’re continuing to play and do the best that they can do, but ultimately everybody has to step it up a little bit. Playoffs is a tough time to play, it’s tight-checking, there’s not much room, and we’re playing a good team in Anaheim.”
The Oilers must win to keep their playoff hopes alive. “I don’t think we’ve seen the best out of our group,” Knoblauch added. “Even though there are some circumstances and guys who are not 100 per cent, I still think we have a lot more.”
