In the first two parts of this series, we broke down some of the Buffalo Sabres biggest division rivals. Now, let’s break down their next opponent.
The Buffalo Sabres met the Edmonton Oilers twice last season and split the series, winning in a 3-2 thriller in November before going down 6-1 in March. As with the Florida Panthers, the Oilers look like one of the better teams in the NHL, so the Sabres must play mistake-free hockey against this squad.
The Sabres have already faced quite the gauntlet in their season-opening games, splitting the homestand and playing respectable hockey in both contests. But things are further complicated against the Oilers since the Sabres will be traveling to Edmonton for this one, which will provide quite a rigorous test.
So do the Sabres have a chance in this one? Let’s break down three key players on the Oilers and what our young team can do to stop them.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Oilers – Three players to watch
When you think of the Edmonton Oilers, you think of Connor McDavid. And once again, McDavid is off to a hot start with five points and four goals. Over the first two matchups, you can define the Buffalo Sabres defensive play as ticky-tacky, allowing odd-man rushes to occur multiple times. If the Sabres let McDavid get behind them, it doesn’t matter who is in the net. He will score often.
Leon Draisaitl is another one to keep an eye on. Like McDavid, he has five points, but with one goal and four assists. He is a dynamic passer who the Sabres must keep an eye on all game. The best way to counter Draisaitl is to take away his favorite passing lanes, something that won’t be easy given the Oilers ability to create space for themselves.
Darnell Nurse is one of the game’s better defensemen and few spot the puck better. I wouldn’t exactly call him a two-way player, but he can put up some goals. However, Nurse is an aggressive defenseman with a knack for blocking shots, posting nine in just two games in 2022. Before trying for a shot on goal, the Sabres would do well to know where Nurse is on the ice at all times. He will be blocking.
(Statistics provided by Hockey-Reference)