EDMONTON – From the outset of this series, it was understood that for the Edmonton Oilers to advance past the Los Angeles Kings in the first round, they would need to win at least one game at Crypto.com Arena. This venue proved to be the most challenging road rink in the NHL during the recent season.
Fortunately, the Oilers have a favorable history in Los Angeles during recent playoff series, holding a 6-4 record with five regulation wins over the last four springs. Their regular-season record at Crypto.com Arena over the same period is 4-3-1. This brings their combined record to 10-7-1 as they head into this critical Game 5.
“We`re definitely comfortable playing here,” commented Brett Kulak, speaking from the visitor`s locker room, a place where the Oilers have celebrated series victories and other significant wins over the years. “We`ve played many games and big matchups here, consistently finding ways to succeed. Individually, players have had standout moments and made key contributions, and as a unit, we`ve achieved success in this building.”
“That`s certainly something we rely on and draw confidence from,” he added.
This series has evolved into a battle for control of the game`s pace and momentum. In three out of the four games played so far, Los Angeles has held the upper hand during the initial 40 minutes, while Edmonton has clearly been the stronger team in the third period.
The team that manages to reverse this trend and impose its will for a full 60 minutes is likely the one that will ultimately win the series.
“We`ve shown great resilience at various points in the series, managing to stay competitive,” stated Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. “This is despite the fact that we haven`t played a complete 60-minute game as cleanly as we would have liked so far.”
“Getting off to a strong start tonight is crucial,” he concluded.
Tristan Blackwood