The Edmonton Oilers won their third game in a row, only the second time they have achieved this feat this season, defeating the Anaheim Ducks 4-2 on Saturday afternoon (March 28). This result represents two vital points in the Pacific Division standings, as the Oilers are now only three points behind the Ducks, who have a game in hand. Winning in regulation was crucial.

The Oilers' goals were scored by Connor McDavid, Jack Roslovic, Matt Savoie, and Zach Hyman, while Beckett Sennecke and Cutter Gauthier scored for the Ducks. This was a high-intensity and strategic game, with a playoff atmosphere.

Nothing comes easy for the Oilers. They took a 3-0 lead with 13 minutes remaining in the third period, but Anaheim stormed back with two goals in under three minutes, cutting the lead to 3-2 with over half the period left to play. However, Edmonton withstood the pressure and held onto their lead.

Anaheim is known for its comebacks, leading the league with 25 such victories. The Oilers showed great resilience in defending their lead, withstanding Anaheim's siege from the moment they took the 3-0 lead. Anaheim outshot the home team 16-8 in the final period, including nine consecutive shots. They had their opportunities but couldn't find the equalizer.

Connor Ingram had a great game in the Oilers' net, being the main reason Edmonton held on. He stopped 29 of 31 shots for a save percentage (SV%) of .935. The 28-year-old was flawless for 40 minutes and was crucial in the final period to keep his team ahead, despite a flurry of chances and extended offensive zone time from Anaheim. The Ducks had 14 high-danger chances at 5-on-5 and 2.05 expected goals.

The Oilers have defended much better in March, and as a result, their goaltending has improved. They blocked 18 shots and made life difficult for Anaheim in front of their goalie. They cleared the pucks out of the dangerous areas after Ingram made the initial save. The Oilers will be successful if they can limit the second-chance opportunities. On both of Anaheim's goals, Ingram had no chance.

The Oilers' top line had an effective game. The trio of McDavid, Savoie, and Vasily Podkolzin played 10:19 together at 5-on-5 and outshot the opposition 7-2. They also had 60.62 percent of the expected goals.

Without Leon Draisaitl, this newly formed trio has found success and has developed chemistry. All three connected on the third goal. McDavid passed to Podkolzin, and the latter waited for the defender before passing to Savoie for the goal. McDavid was the standout player of the match, with a goal, three points, and six shots. Savoie scored a crucial goal and continues to produce, scoring in three consecutive games. Podkolzin also had an assist, three shots, four hits, and two blocked shots. That trio complements each other very well. McDavid provides the pace and high-end skill, Savoie provides a high hockey IQ, and Podkolzin provides physicality and tenacious forechecking. They had a great game, and hopefully, head coach Kris Knoblauch keeps them together until Draisaitl returns.

The Oilers continue their four-game homestand on Tuesday (March 31) against the Seattle Kraken. Follow the NHL coverage throughout the season.