Following the conclusion of the trade deadline and the finalization of their roster, the Edmonton Oilers began their game in Buffalo with promise, securing an early lead. However, as the match progressed, they lost their offensive momentum and defensive composure, eventually surrendering their advantage and succumbing to a 3-2 defeat in the shootout against the Buffalo Sabres.
Acknowledging the challenging schedule the Oilers have faced recently, playing five games in five different cities within a 168-hour period, with varying start times ranging from 2pm to 11am MST. Additionally, they are set to play their sixth game in nine days in Pittsburgh the following morning, which is even more demanding due to the overnight clock change.
During this stretch, Edmonton appears to have struggled to find their rhythm, displaying subpar performances against weaker Eastern Conference opponents. Despite narrowly salvaging a point against the Sabres on Saturday, they were fortunate as Buffalo hit the post multiple times and missed several scoring opportunities. The Oilers also benefited from a disallowed goal in overtime, yet their luck ran out in the shootout, where the Sabres emerged victorious.
While Edmonton outshot Buffalo 32-27, the Sabres held the advantage in Grade A scoring chances, particularly dominating in the third period and overtime. Despite the Oilers’ success in the faceoff circle, winning 80% of draws, they were outmatched in physicality, registering only 14 hits compared to Buffalo’s 40.