The Edmonton Oilers will finally begin their latest campaign for championship glory on Wednesday as they match up against the Calgary Flames. With the Battle of Alberta as their season opener, the franchise will be depending on captain Connor McDavid to push them to a great start.
With the two franchises rekindling an old rivalry, here’s everything you’d need to know about the game and if the Oilers’ captain will take to the ice in the showdown.
Will Connor McDavid Suit Up Against The Flames Tonight?
As the Oilers head into their season opener, McDavid is set to be the favorite to lead the Oilers to a quick victory on Wednesday. While the lineup for the match is yet to be revealed, the Oilers captain is pretty much set to start the match.
With 74 assists last season, the center was one of the best players in the league, but the Oilers had already fallen once against the Flames on September 21. While the franchise won the other split-squad game 3-0, McDavid wasn’t part of the squad that night.
But with him accompanying Leon Draisaitl in today’s game, experts have named the Oilers as the favorites heading into the contest. With Zack Hyman missing on the top line, McDavid would be playing alongside Draisaitl on the left wing and Trent Frederic on the right to drive their offense.
Oilers vs. Flames Injury Report
While both teams boast some world-class players on their rosters, neither will enter the match at full strength. For the Oilers, their opening game will serve as a testing ground for head coach Kris Knoblauch as he navigates new lineups.
With Hyman placed on LTIR by the franchise earlier this week, Edmonton will have to play someone else on its left wing against the Flames. In addition to the winger, defenseman Jake Walman has also been placed on injury reserve with an undisclosed injury.
Mattias Janmark has also been placed on IR. Meanwhile, for the Flames, forwards Jonathan Huberdeau and Martin Pospisil have been placed on the IR for undisclosed injuries. With key players missing from both sides, Wednesday will be a tough spot for both teams.
Where To Watch Oilers vs. Flames Tonight
The game would go live at 10 PM EDT at Rogers Place. However, for fans who can’t attend the Oilers’ home games, streaming and television have got them covered. The American fans can stream the game live on ESPN+. NHL Center Ice will also be covering the game.
For the Canadian fans, however, there are even more options, as they can catch the game live on both television and stream it. Sportsnet will broadcast the match in Canada, while streaming options are available through Sportsnet+ and TVAS+.
Additionally, for old-school fans who want to listen to the match while commuting or in their cars, the Oilers Radio Network, including 880 CHED, will be broadcasting the match on the radio.
