Canadian hockey Report: Oilers’ Struggles, Canucks’ Rebuild, and More
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Gino Reda is joined by TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston to go across the country with the biggest storyline right now with each of the seven Canadian hockey teams.
Gino reda: While our friends South of the border celebrate Thanksgiving with loads of football, CJ and I are going to feast on the latest insider hockey news right across Canada.
CJ, let’s start in Edmonton where there’s not much to give thanks for right now. How long before somthing significant has to happen?
Chris Johnston: Well that’s the biggest question for the Oilers management. Some alarm bells sounded there this week. The loss they had on home ice to Dallas,going down 4-0 in the first period,that’s the kind of game that I think causes everything to think.
We know the Oilers would like to be patient from a management standpoint. They want to give this roster time to settle in before making any decisions. But when you’re faced with decisions like that, it does start to cause a re-think and there has been a report here in the last 24 hours about their possible interest in Tristan Jarry, a goaltender with ties to Edmonton, who’s been having a nice bounceback season in Pittsburgh.
I do think it’s a time when the oilers have to be seriously looking around at their options. Jarry is someone, I should mention, not that the Penguins are shopping by any means but they’re in a position where they’ll listen on any player. Whether it’s Jarry or someone else, I think the Oilers have to be considering everything. Not just the amount of losses they’ve had but the way they’ve played through this first stretch of the schedule.
Reda: The Canucks have run out of patience. They’ve told GMs across the league that they’re open for business and of course that sparked panic among fans of the Canucks that wondered whether Quinn Hughes is going. What are you hearing about their plans?
(Image of Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner adjusting his helmet during a game against the Florida Panthers.) (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
(Image unavailable for Vancouver Canucks section)
Flames Trade Talk Heating Up, Leafs’ Struggles Continue – TSN Report
The Calgary Flames are facing increasing trade speculation, fueled by recent performances and comments from GM Don Maloney. According to TSN’s John Johnston, the team’s struggles, particularly games like the recent loss where Dustin Wolf was pulled early, will only intensify discussions around potential trades.
Johnston suggests that Nazem Kadri will be a key player to watch as the Christmas holiday approaches. Kadri may need to initiate conversations if he’s considering a move, despite the organization’s desire to retain him. Beyond Kadri, Rasmus Andersson, a pending UFA, is expected to draw significant interest, as is Blake Coleman, who already has teams inquiring about his availability with one year remaining on his contract.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs, despite recent returns of key players like Matthews, Knies, and Roy, and an overtime win, haven’t secured a regulation win in over three weeks. This inconsistency presents a challenge for coach Craig Berube, who is attempting a positive approach amidst the team’s difficulties.
Jets Relying on Current Goaltending Duo, Exploring Young Player Trades
the Winnipeg Jets are currently not pursuing a goaltender via trade, opting to move forward with Eric Comrie and Thomas Milic. While goaltending hasn’t been a significant issue, Wednesday’s loss in Washington highlighted the impact a difference-maker like Connor Hellebuyck can have – a game they potentially could have won with him in net.
The Jets will need to navigate a stretch without their reigning MVP. Should they look to make trades, Brad Lambert and Ville Heinola represent potential assets to offer. However, the primary focus remains internal: boosting scoring throughout the lineup. The top line is performing well offensively, and the team will need to grind out wins while Hellebuyck is sidelined.
Ottawa Senators Show resilience During Road Trip, Prepare for Tkachuk’s Return
The Ottawa Senators have navigated a challenging stretch of their season successfully, posting a 3-1 record on a recent road trip and demonstrating strong play despite the absence of key player Brady Tkachuk. The team is poised to welcome Tkachuk back to the lineup in his hometown of St.Louis on Friday, marking a positive turning point for the Senators. This success is particularly noteworthy given early-season concerns and slow starts from some players.
Prosperous Road Trip & Improved Play
The Senators’ recent road trip performance is a significant boost for the team. Winning three out of four games demonstrates a growing resilience and ability to secure points even under pressure. this is especially encouraging considering the team has been without captain Brady Tkachuk.
Beyond the win-loss record, the Senators have shown marked advancement in several areas. Defensive play has tightened, contributing to their success. Players who initially struggled, such as Fabian Zetterlund, have begun to find their scoring touch, adding valuable offensive contributions. zetterlund scored goals in back-to-back games on November 23rd and 25th against the New York Islanders and Tampa Bay Lightning, respectively Ottawa Senators Official Site.
Brady Tkachuk’s Impending Return
Brady Tkachuk, a key offensive force and team captain, is expected to return to the lineup on Friday, November 29th, when the Senators face the St. Louis Blues in his hometown TSN. His return provides a significant emotional and on-ice boost for Ottawa. Tkachuk has been recovering from an upper-body injury sustained on November 9th against the New York rangers ESPN.
reasons for Optimism in Ottawa
The Senators’ positive trajectory is built on several factors:
* Improved Defence: A renewed focus on defensive structure has limited opponents’ scoring chances.
* Offensive Contributions: Players beyond the top line are stepping up and contributing offensively.
* Resilience: The team has demonstrated the ability to win games even when facing adversity, such as injuries to key players.
* Tkachuk’s Return: The imminent return of their captain provides a significant lift in morale and on-ice leadership.
Key Takeaways
* The Ottawa Senators achieved a 3-1 record on a recent road trip.
* Brady Tkachuk is expected to return to the lineup on November 29th against the St. Louis Blues.
* The team has shown improvement in defensive play and offensive contributions from multiple players.
* Ottawa is demonstrating resilience and a positive trend as the season progresses.
Looking ahead, the Senators will aim to build on this momentum with Tkachuk back in the lineup. Their performance in the coming weeks will be crucial as they strive to solidify their position in a competitive Eastern Conference.