One glaring Oilers weakness: Analyzing Edmonton’s 5-on-5 second period struggles

Writer Jason Gregor argues that the Edmonton Oilers' primary weakness through a strong 11-2-3 start is their passive five-on-five play during second periods. While Edmonton holds a positive 37-29 goal differential at five-on-five overall, they have been outshot 146-87 during middle frames, driven heavily by six lopsided periods where they were outshot by a combined 55 shots against opponents like New Jersey.

Gregor notes that despite these shot deficits, Edmonton remains even in second-period goals at 13 each and leads the league in limiting high-danger rush chances. However, he highlights that Edmonton's tendency to spend excessive time defending in their own zone during middle frames limits their attack, representing an issue head coach Mike Babcock will need to resolve.