Oilers vs. Sharks: Game 5 prediction

After a 7-0 win for the San Jose Sharks in Game 4, Thursday’s Game 5 will begin with the Edmonton Oilers and Sharks tied at two games a piece. Who wins Game 5?

So far, the first round series between the San Jose Sharks and Edmonton Oilers has been very close. The first three games saw a total of four goals separate the winner and loser. However, Game 4 saw the Sharks blow out Edmonton 7-0 at home. This sends the series back to Edmonton with each team at two wins in the best of seven series.

San Jose has a lot of momentum going. Their offense woke up in Game 4, as the Sharks got four second period goals to lead the way. Captain Joe Pavelski scored just 15 seconds into the game. This goal set the tone for the rest of the game. After being shut out in the previous two games, San Jose’s offense showed up big time in Game 4. If this is the kind of offense they’ll be getting moving forward, they have a great chance of upsetting Edmonton.

Meanwhile, the Oilers must put Game 4 behind them. Defensive breakdowns cost them big time and they couldn’t get anything going on offense. Connor McDavid has been carrying them, but perhaps Edmonton needs to get more from their other players. Their goal might be a bit more difficult to achieve than anticipated, as Leon Draisaitl could face a suspension after a spear in Game 4.

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Prediction

The Sharks have a ton of confidence right now. However, it will be tough for them to win in Edmonton. The Oilers have been quite good at home this year while the Sharks have struggled on the road. However, San Jose is a battle tested team and their experience from last season’s Stanley Cup run is starting to show. Likewise, Edmonton’s lack of experience showed in Game 4.

Sharks win 4-2