Heading into tonight's game, the Florida Panthers have been shut out twice, just like when they visited Edmonton last year.
However, Maurice isn't worried about the Panthers offence. He's concerned about his team's defence on the rush, and said the Oilers will destroy them if it continues.
Given the circumstances, the Panthers will be extremely motivated to bring their best against the Edmonton Oilers tonight, and that's even before considering the game as a Stanley Cup Final rematch.
While the Panthers and Paul Maurice aren't shying away from the big test of facing the Oilers and wanting to bring their best after two stinker games, the Oilers are treating it like business as usual.
Of course the Oilers want to win, they're treating it as a test against a quality team, but they're not dwelling on the loss from last season and looking for their lick back tonight. Connor McDavid and the rest of the Oilers are keeping calm.
The Oilers know that they're starting to get on a roll, want to maintain this level of play, and keep the focus on tweaking their own game for this year's playoffs.
Still, tonight's game should be must watch for any hockey fan. The Oilers are just driven to be better and win tonight's game, but when the puck drops, some rivalries from last season could be drawn out.
POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 16 | 174 ANSWERS Paul Maurice Shares His Biggest Concern About Facing Edmonton Oilers Do you think the Edmonton Oilers will have a blowout win over the Florida Panthers tonight? | ||
Yes | 33 | 19 % |
No | 129 | 74.1 % |
See Results | 12 | 6.9 % |
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