Oilersnation Staff

Oilersnation: Your Source for Edmonton Oilers News and Analysis

Talking Points from Game 2 versus the Stars

The Edmonton Oilers dropped their second straight game of their playoff series against the Dallas Stars on Wednesday, losing 3-2 in overtime. The Oilers had a chance to tie the game in the final minutes of regulation when they were awarded a power play, but they were unable to capitalize. The Stars then scored on their first shot of overtime to win the game.

There were a number of talking points from the game, including:

* Connor McDavid's continued dominance: McDavid was once again the Oilers' best player, scoring a goal and adding an assist. He now has 10 points in six playoff games. * The Oilers' struggles on the power play: The Oilers were 0-for-5 on the power play in Game 2, and they are now just 1-for-16 in the playoffs. * The Oilers' defensive struggles: The Oilers have allowed three goals in each of their first two playoff games, and their defense has looked shaky at times. * The Stars' strong goaltending: Jake Oettinger was outstanding in goal for the Stars, stopping 33 of 35 shots. He has been one of the best goalies in the playoffs so far.

Abbotsford Canucks name Manny Malhotra head coach

The Abbotsford Canucks, the AHL affiliate of the Vancouver Canucks, have named Manny Malhotra as their new head coach. Malhotra, 41, was most recently an assistant coach with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Malhotra is a former NHL player who spent 17 seasons in the league. He was a member of the Dallas Stars team that won the Stanley Cup in 1999.

Malhotra will be tasked with leading the Canucks back to the playoffs after they missed out last season. The Canucks have not won a playoff series since 2011.

How the Oilers transitional play has improved under the new coaching staff

The Oilers have shown significant improvement in their transitional play under the new coaching staff led by Dave Tippett. The Oilers are now one of the most dangerous teams in the NHL when they are able to create turnovers and get the puck moving quickly in the other direction.

There are a number of factors that have contributed to the Oilers' improvement in transitional play, including:

* The Oilers' new forechecking system: The Oilers are now using a more aggressive forechecking system that is designed to create turnovers and force the opposition to make mistakes. * The Oilers' improved puck movement: The Oilers are now moving the puck more quickly and efficiently through the neutral zone, which is allowing them to create more scoring chances. * The Oilers' improved defensive play: The Oilers are now playing better defense in their own zone, which is giving them more opportunities to create turnovers and get the puck moving in the other direction. The Oilers' improved transitional play has been a key factor in their success this season. The Oilers are now one of the most dangerous teams in the NHL, and they are a legitimate contender to win the Stanley Cup.

Conclusion

The Oilers are a team with a lot of potential, but they have some work to do if they want to be a contender. They need to improve their power play, their defense, and their goaltending. If they can do that, they have the potential to be a very good team.