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Friedman reveals the key for the Oilers to compete for the Stanley Cup
Published April 8, 2024 at 9:56 PM
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In the latest episode of the 32 Thoughts podcast, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman revealed that he believes Evander Kane is the key to the Edmonton Oilers' path to the Stanley Cup this season.
Sportsnet recently published the latest edition of their podcast 32 Thoughts with Jeff Marek and sports journalist Elliotte Friedman. About a third of the way through the episode, Freidman revealed who he believes is the central player in the Edmonton Oilers' path toward this season's Stanley Cup."My theory is that the Oilers know if they're going to be successful in the playoffs, they need Evander Kane."
Evander Kane has made headlines lately after his consistent arguments with his teammates, including Corey Perry just two nights ago. This has caused many Oilers fans to see him as more of a liability than an asset for the team.
"Teammates argue all the time but this is the second time one has snapped at Evander Kane on the bench. I believe the message is the same, it's the little plays that make a big difference #Oilers #NHL"
However, Friedman substantiated his previous statement by assuring fans that Kane is a brutal player, and these arguments with teammates are actually fueling the fire he needs to perform in the playoffs.
"They don't just need him to be moderately engaged. They need big pain in the a** Evandeer Kane. They need top forechecker in the league Evander Kane, and I think they've just decided they are going to ride him until he gets there."
Moreover, he adds that all this push will come from his fellow teammates, who we have seen going at it with him on the bench throughout this regular season.
"It's going to be tough love, and it's not gonna be the coach who's going to do it. It's going to be the players who are gonna do it, and they are saying 'If we want to win the Stanley Cup this year, we need a great Evander Kane and we are taking the responsibility of making sure he gets there."
While the playoffs are still a couple of weeks away, the Edmonton Oilers are guaranteed a spot and have a clear shot at this year's Stanley Cup. Whether or not their fate lies in the hands of Evander Kane, however, time will only tell.
| POLL | ||
April 8 | 246 answers Friedman reveals the key for the Oilers to compete for the Stanley Cup Is Friedman right that Evander Kane is the key to the Oilers getting the Stanley Cup this year? | ||
| Yes | 83 | 33.7 % |
| Partly | 101 | 41.1 % |
| No | 62 | 25.2 % |
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