The Edmonton Oilers will try to snap a three-game losing skid on Monday night when they host the Arizona Coyotes.
“I think they’re doing a good job of defending. They’re hard to score to on,” said defenceman Matt Benning of the Coyotes, who are 8-2-1 in their last 11.
The Oilers were beaten 3-2 on Saturday night by the New York Rangers, the result of a slow start and overall subpar effort.
“I think that wasn’t the way we want to play as a team,” centre Leon Draisaitl said.
“They outworked us. Especially the start was almost embarrassing.”
Adam Larsson has rejoined the Oilers after a trip to Sweden for his father’s funeral. However, he won’t play against Arizona, meaning rookie Ethan Bear will get into his third game.
“He has taken advantage of his time in the American League. I think he’s fitter now. He’s at a pro hockey player fitness level as opposed to a junior hockey player fitness level,” said head coach Todd McLellan of Bear.
“His confidence level with the puck, his deception at the blue line, is good.”
The Oilers held an optional morning skate on Monday and didn’t run lines. However, McLellan indicated Zack Kassian could be scratched, which would mean Drake Caggiula would return to action.
Also, the Oilers have signed free agent forward Colin Larkin to a one-year entry level contract.
Larkin, 24, spent the last four seasons in NCAA Division III with UMass Boston. This season, he finished with 46 points in 27 games. He was named Player of the Year in the NEHC for a second consecutive year and was named to the First Team All-Conference.
He’s the brother of Detroit Red Wings forward Dylan Larkin.
Catch the Oilers and Coyotes on 630 CHED with the Face-off Show at 5:30 p.m. The game starts at 7 p.m.