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Game Thread: Oilers @ Ducks - Winning or Losing?

The Oilers are in Anaheim on a three game winning streak to take on the best of the Pacific.

By Curtis LeBlanc
Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Last game's 4-1 win over the Colorado Avalanche was bad news for team "Tank for McEichel" as the Oilers put themselves two points further from second-last place in the overall standings. Edmonton has won its last three games, and that, combined with the Coyotes continuing suck fest through the last quarter of the season, has them in danger of falling into Hannifin/Strome/whoever territory.

Tonight, they'll face off against an Anaheim Ducks team that can clinch the Pacific Division title with a win.

How to Tune in

The game gets going tonight at 8:00 PM MT on Sportsnet West.

What to Watch for from the Oilers

The Oilers have their serendipitous line combinations to thank in-part for their recent bout of success. When Taylor Hall returned to the lineup, many (myself included) questioned the decision to put him on a line with Lander and Miller instead of returning him to his perch atop the depth chart next to Eberle and RNH. Todd Nelson's hunch has paid off as Hall has five points in his five games since returning, while Miller has six over that same stretch, and Lander, four.

Meanwhile, Richard Bachman has briefly left the team to be with loved ones after a death in the family. Our condolences go out to him and his.

More from our team sites

Anaheim Ducks

More from our team sites

Anaheim Ducks blog Anaheim Calling

What to Watch for from the Ducks

The Ducks leaders, courtesy of Anaheim Calling, show that, in addition to strong play from the usual suspects, they're getting some effective minutes out of Patrick Maroon and Matt Beleskey:

Scoring: Ryan Getzlaf (24-44-68), Corey Perry (32-20-52), Ryan Kesler (20-27-47); Among Defensemen: Sami Vatanen (12-25-37)TOI/GP: Francois Beauchemin (22:47), Hampus Lindholm (21:51), Sami Vatanen (21:32); Among Forwards: Ryan Getzlaf (20:06)Possession: (5v5 FF% aka USA%, minimum 45 GP): Matt Beleskey (54.4%), Patrick Maroon (54.04%), Ryan Getzlaf (53.99%)

Final Thought