3 major takeaways from Edmonton Oilers' 3-2 win in first preseason game vs Jets

The Edmonton Oilers won their first preseason game this year, edging the Winnipeg Jets 3-2 in OT on Sunday. Cam Dineen scored the winner 1:17 into OT. Raphael Lavoie and Sam O’Reilly scored for the Oilers.

David Gustafsson and Dominic Toninato scored for Winnipeg. Toninato scored at 9:17 of the third period to tie the game at two goals apiece.

With both missing virtually all of their starters, the game featured prospects and depth players vying for NHL jobs. With that in mind, here’s a look at the three major takeaways from the Edmonton Oilers' first preseason win.

3 major takeaways from Edmonton Oilers' 3-2 preseason win

#3. The play was even throughout the game

Neither team dominated the pace of the game. Both teams took turns controlling the play, though the Edmonton Oilers had a decided edge in the shot column, outshooting the Jets 28-19.

The Jets opened the scoring less than a minute into the game, with Gustafsson tipping in a shot from Logan Stanely. From there, the Oilers settled down, gradually getting back into the game.

Beyond that early miscue, the Oilers played a solid all-around game. The showing is encouraging as the players on the ice tonight could push for jobs in the bottom six and defensive pairing.

#2. The goaltending was solid, if unspectacular

The game was essentially split between Olivier Rodrigue and Collin Delia. Both Oilers goalies shared the crease, with Rodrigue stopping six of seven shots while Delia stopped 11 of 12.

On the whole, both goalies made the saves they needed to make. Rodrigue faced considerably fewer shots. He looked shaky, giving up a goal on the game’s first shot, but seemed to settle down quite well after that.

As for Delia, he stopped one shot on a Jets power play, looking calm throughout the sequence. It’s worth noting that both goalies are in the mix for the backup job behind starting netminder Stuart Skinner. So, this game provides a good start for both netminders, with Delia having the stronger showing.

#1. The Oilers didn’t lose their composure in the third period

The Edmonton Oilers entered the third period tied at one when Lavoie scored on the power play to give the Oilers the lead. Ten seconds later, the Winnipeg Jets roared back with the tying game.

But instead of falling apart at that point, the Oilers held it together throughout the third period, eventually winning the game in OT.

This performance is encouraging as the Oilers have been known to lose focus in the past, particularly after blowing leads. That was not the case tonight. The Oilers played a tight game and took home their first win of the preseason.