Puljujarvi leads Oilers over Canucks
EDMONTON Jesse Puljujarvi’s decision to spend his time off playing with Edmonton kids on an outdoor rink seems to have paid off.
Puljujarvi had a career best three points with a goal and two assists and Patrick Maroon scored twice as the Edmonton Oilers had a strong showing in their return from a week-long break, defeating the Vancouver Canucks 5-2 on Saturday.
“It was a fun night and a good win,” said the 19-year-old Finn, taken fourth overall by Edmonton in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. “I think we all played well as a team, as did our line.
“Having the week rest, I feel 100 per cent right now, I feel great. I got a little confidence on that outdoor rink.”
Oiler captain Connor McDavid said that Puljujarvi is just starting to tap his potential, with 14 points in 30 games this season.
“The sky is as tall as he wants it to be,” he said. “He’s big, skates well, is confident, has a great shot, but I think it all goes back to his size. He’s six-foot-four, still young, trying to (grow) into his body. He’ll be that solid-on-his-feet, good puck battle guy.” Jujhar Khaira and Leon Draisaitl also scored for the Oilers (21-23-3), who have won three games in a row and are now 9-2 against the Pacific this season.
Daniel Sedin and Brandon Sutter replied for the Canucks (18-22-6), who had a two-game winning streak snapped.
“We gave them odd-man rushes and those are skilled players, they’re going to score if we give them enough chances,” Sedin said.