The San Jose Sharks welcomed the young Edmonton Oilers into HP Pavilion, looking to stop their five-game slide. This matchup couldn't have been more of an opportunity against the Oilers, who sit dead last in the Western Conference at 14-21-7 for a meager 35 points through 42 games played.
The Sharks have feasted on the Oil this season, outscoring Edmonton to the tune of 12-5 through three contests. Antero Niittymaki beat the Oilers for those three wins, posting a solid 1.67 goals against average.
The Oilers came into the HP Pavilion with struggles of their own, having won only two of their last 13 contests. After ending a seven-game slide of their own on a 2-1 home win over the Islanders, the Oilers dropped another two in a row before visiting San Jose.
Despite the Oilers' struggles and last-place standing, this team is talented with young hungry players that work hard and bring energy every night.
Lacking true star firepower, this Oiler team cannot rest off their power-play laurels and half-heart-it even strength. The Oilers had scored 75 on-five goals coming into the game, while the Sharks had just 72 even-strength tallies.
The Sharks' sli ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by John Phen
San Jose Sharks vs. Edmonton Oilers, 5-2: Season Is Sliding Away
January 14th, 2011 by John Phen Leave a reply »
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