BLOG: Neal starts strong

EDMONTON, AB - It's amazing the amount of confidence a two-goal performance can breed.
For James Neal, who notched two power-play markers in the Oilers 6-5 win in over a roller-coaster ride versus the Kings on Saturday, it means a lot.
The 10-time 20-goal scorer made an impact in just his second game with his new club after tallying just seven goals with the Calgary Flames in 2018-19.
Last year was an anomaly for Neal statistically and the winger is convinced he will return to form with the Orange & Blue. Saturday's performance proving as much.
"It's for sure a good start," Neal said Sunday following practice.
No stranger to the demanding nature of being a point producer, Neal admitted there's always pressure to generate.
"I put pressure on myself every year to score goals," Neal, who has 272 career tucks, said. "I feel like if you want to be a top guy, if you want to be a goal scorer, you're going to have that pressure. That's good pressure."
Both Neal and goaltender Mike Smith made the move from Calgary to Edmonton over the summer, and both are working to be gamers for their new club. Thus far, Smith has filed two W's into the win column while Neal's finishing ability has been a welcomed addition to Edmonton's power play.
"He's rejuvenated," Smith said of Neal. "Both James and I are trying to come in and bring a different mentality, and some different leadership qualities. Nealer's done that so far."
During their off-season workouts, Smith saw first-hand how driven Neal was to join the Oilers and become a contributor.