The Edmonton Oilers began their December campaign with a loss against Kirill Kaprizov’s Minnesota Wild, but redeemed themselves in a 9-4 showdown against the Seattle Kraken. As the Oilers attempt to salvage an underwhelming season that has drawn considerable criticism from the community, they will face Western Conference rivals, the Winnipeg Jets, on Dec. 6.
Friday’s contest holds remarkable significance for the Canadian rivals: the Jets will attempt to climb the standings after losing six out of their past eight matches. The Oilers, on the other hand, are just trying to strengthen their playoff contentions. As the excitement builds, here’s everything fans need to know about watching the game.
Where To Watch Jets vs. Oilers
The game takes place at Rogers Place in Edmonton with puck drop scheduled for 10:00 p.m. ET. Fans can watch the contest on multiple platforms depending on their location. In Canada, Sportsnet will broadcast the game nationally. TSN will also carry regional coverage for Jets fans. American viewers can watch on ESPN+ via streaming. NHL Center Ice is another option available for those who would like to stream the battle instead.
If you are a die-hard Oilers fan, do not forget to get an Oilers+ subscription for access to exclusive behind-the-scenes moments.
Oilers and Jets Injury Reports
The Oilers enter Friday’s matchup dealing with several injury concerns. Winger Kasperi Kapanen remains out after re-injuring himself at practice earlier. His latest setback was particularly frustrating given that he was close to returning. Jack Roslovic, who has proved himself particularly valuable to the blue and orange squad, is out as well.
The Jets’ standout goalie, Connor Hellebuyck, remains on the injured reserve following his knee surgery. The timeline for his return remains the same, as the star netminder is expected to be back before the Winter Olympics at Milan-Cortina.
The Oilers will lean heavily on Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl to create offense. However, they need more than just their superstars producing. Secondary scoring must emerge for Edmonton to have any chance against quality opponents like Winnipeg.
Goaltending will be critical for both teams.
Edmonton’s netminding has been historically bad this season. Meanwhile, Hellebuyck’s absence continues to weigh heavily on the Jets, as the team struggles with a poor defense and an inability to score.
Record-wise, the Oilers are 12-11-5, while the Jets stand at 14-12-1; both teams need to focus, first and foremost, on their goaltending. Stuart Skinner has shown flashes of brilliance, yet appeals for improvements at the goaltending front remain loud, indicating people’s shaky faith in him.