Sat Feb 08 01:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Oilers Aim for Season Sweep Against Avalanche Before Break
**Edmonton, AB** – The Edmonton Oilers look to conclude their season series against the Colorado Avalanche with a victory on Friday night at Rogers Place. This crucial matchup precedes the NHL’s two-week pause for the 4 Nations Face-Off. A win would give the Oilers a season sweep over the Avalanche for the first time since 2016-17, and extend their winning streak to three games.
The Oilers enter the game riding high after a 4-3 overtime win against the Chicago Blackhawks on Wednesday, a game highlighted by Leon Draisaitl’s multi-point performance and Jeff Skinner’s strong showing on the second line. Draisaitl, currently vying for the NHL’s points lead with Nathan MacKinnon, has been a key offensive driver for Edmonton. His 81 points in 54 games are a career high for this point in the season.
Goaltender Stuart Skinner is expected to start for the Oilers, having previously secured both wins against Colorado this season. The Avalanche, meanwhile, are playing the second of back-to-back games and boast a strong record in such scenarios. They will be looking to bounce back after their recent blockbuster trade that sent Mikko Rantanen to Carolina and brought in Martin Necas, who has quickly become a contributor to their offense.
The game features a star-studded lineup, with MacKinnon, Draisaitl, and Connor McDavid among the league’s top scorers, along with elite defensemen Cale Makar and Evan Bouchard. The Oilers, currently holding first place in the Pacific Division, are only two points ahead of the Vegas Golden Knights, who are coming off a four-game losing streak and will be eager to reduce the gap further. The Oilers and Golden Knights both have one game remaining before the break. The intensity of this game promises a thrilling final encounter before the league-wide pause. The game will be broadcast on Sportsnet at 7:00 MT.
First Piper 