Brown Returns to Edmonton
One of the more personal storylines belongs to Connor Brown, who plays his first game back in Edmonton after spending the past two seasons with the Oilers.
“Obviously some awesome memories in this building,” Brown said. “Some fun playoff runs. It’ll be a fun game tonight.”
Brown spoke with appreciation for his time in Edmonton and the environment he is returning to.
“It’s a storied building,” he said. “So many great players have come through this organization. It was a real honor to wear the Oilers sweater. Passionate fans. It’s a fun place to play.”
Brown knows exactly what the Devils must deal with, especially with Connor McDavid still driving play.
“They have number 97,” Brown said with a smile. “That’s different than any other team. He requires a lot of attention. He’s so dynamic.”
While Draisaitl’s absence removes one layer of Edmonton’s attack, Brown cautioned against expecting an easier night.
“They’ve played well without him,” Brown said. “Sometimes when a guy who eats a lot of minutes goes down, other guys get excited about playing more. You’re playing against a motivated group.”
Oilers Updates
That sentiment was echoed by Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch, who confirmed Draisaitl will not play but said his group has responded collectively.
“When you miss somebody very important to the team, everyone takes notice and steps up,” Knoblauch said. “Guys know they’ve got an extra opportunity. I think that’s what happened this weekend.”
Knoblauch added that Edmonton’s defensive results have improved, though he views it as a work in progress.
“We’re very happy with how things have gone,” he said. “But it’s such a short period of time. We’ve got room to grow defensively.”
Tristan Jarry will start in goal for Edmonton as the Oilers continue to balance their rotation.
For Keefe, the Devils’ task is clear. Manage the pace, protect the puck, and stay connected when Edmonton pushes.
“The more time you spend with the puck yourself, the harder you make it on star players,” Keefe said earlier this season. “That’s what we’re preparing for.”
With a hostile building, elite speed on the other side, and no margin for drifting, the Devils know this is not a night to ease into.
It is a night to be sharp from the start, resilient through the push, and disciplined enough to give themselves a chance to leave Edmonton with another step forward.
