Draisaitl remains hot in McDavid's absence, PK needs work, and more: 3 key takeaways from Edmonton Oilers' 4-2 victory over Calgary Flames

It's always exciting when the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames renew their famed rivalry known as the "Battle Of Alberta". Sunday evening saw the second matchup this season between the two teams, and it was the Oilers who evened up the season series with a 4-2 win.

The victory improved the Oilers to 6-5-1 through 12 games, while the Flames dropped to the same record.

The scoring began in the first period thanks to sniper Leon Draisaitl's ninth goal of the season; the Oilers are relying upon him heavily in the absence of star captain Connor McDavid. Edmonton then seized a two-goal lead after first-year Oilers forward Jeff Skinner netted his third of the year.

The Flames then fought their way back into the contest thanks to Anthony Mantha's power-play goal in the second period, followed by the tying marker from Yegor Sharangovich shortly into the final frame.

However, the Oilers took the lead for good thanks to Zach Hyman's second goal of the year, connecting on the power-play for what proved to be the game-winner. Mattias Janmark then sealed the win with an empty net goal.

Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner finished with 29 saves, while Flames goaltender Dan Vladar stopped 27 of the 30 shots he faced.

Let's examine the three biggest takeaways from the second Battle of Alberta this season.

3 Takeaways from Edmonton Oilers 4-2 win over Calgary Flames

#3. Leon Draisaitl continues to carry the load in McDavid's absence

One of the best players in the NHL in his own right, Draisaitl continues to impress in the absence of McDavid. Not only have the Oilers won both games that their captain has been forced to miss due to his injury, but Draisiatl has played a key role in both of them.

His three points against the Flames give him 16 points in 12 games played.

#2. The penalty killing still needs improvement

Despite the win, one area of their game the Oilers must clean up is their penalty-killing, which is currently ranked dead last in the NHL. Sunday's game marked the ninth time in 12 outings that they've allowed at least one power-play goal against, and they've surrendered a total of 13 on the season.

To continue winning, the Oilers would be best served by not only staying out of the penalty box, but clamping down defensively when they do fall a man short.

#1. Stuart Skinner turned in arguably his best performance of the season

Skinner has garnered criticism for his subpar performances this season, but he was on top of his game on Sunday night against the Flames. Several of his 29 saves came on high-percentage scoring opportunities by Calgary and he was given a positive reception by the many Oilers fans.

It will only serve as a positive for the Oilers moving forward if Skinner's confidence level grows.

The Oilers return to action on Monday night when they host the New Jersey Devils at Rogers Place in Edmonton.