Oilers fans flee arena and turn their backs as team collapses in game 1 humiliation against Jets
Photo credit: Kelowna Now
Ahead of the 2024 NHL season, the Edmonton Oilers had a lot to look forward to, as their team appeared in the Stanley Cup Finals just a few months back and lost in Game 7. Though they did not win the Cup against the Panthers, the team showed that they are ready for the big lights and another chance at winning.
Unfortunately, this season is already off to a bad start, as in their season opener, they got shutout by the Jets and lost 6-0:
Oilers goaltender, Stuart Skinner, was a notable disappointment in this opening game, as he allowed 5 goals on only 13 shots, and was pulled during the 2nd period.
Last season, Skinner was pretty lights out to say the least, averaging only 2.62 goals-against, with a .905 save percentage. He helped lead the Oilers to a winning record and was viewed as a top goalie in the NHL.
Following the blowout loss, Skinner spoke to the media and addressed his sloppy game, saying:
"It's very frustrating to start like this. It's not ideal, don't feel great"
Though Skinner played poorly, the blame is not all on him. The defensive game was brutal to watch, allowing the Jets many opportunities in front of the net and around the ice. The entire Oilers team looked lost.
Oilers star forward Leon Draisaitl also spoke to the media following this loss and was upfront and honest about the sloppy performance, saying:
"Obviously not the start we want. We'll regroup & put a better effort in on Saturday"
The Oilers will have a few days to regroup before hosting superstar Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks on home ice this Saturday night.
The Blackhawks played their first game of the season Tuesday night and lost to the new team of the NHL in Utah.
Both the Oilers and Blackhawks have a lot to improve before the weekend begins and are gearing up for their matchup.
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