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Leon Draisaitl shared his thoughts after the Edmonton Oilers' disappointing 6-0 loss to the Winnipeg Jets in their highly anticipated season opener on Wednesday.
With a sold-out Rogers Place crowd and buzzing city eager for a fresh start, expectations were high that the Oilers would overcome their preseason shortcomings and build on from where they left last season.
However, the team appeared to be in a slump, mirroring their preseason struggles by conceding too many goals.
Leon Draisaitl discussed the key issues that led to the Oilers' shortcomings, noting that several critical mistakes resulted in goals for the Jets. He emphasized the need for the team to be more focused and precise during crucial moments.
Draisaitl acknowledged that the loss wasn't the ideal start to the season. Reflecting on the trend of blowout losses at the start of the season, he said (quotes via Oilersnation's Zach on X):
"It's the same as last year. We just learn from our mistakes, do better next game and look for a better result."
The Edmonton Oilers struggled in multiple areas during their season opener, with the offense failing to generate scoring opportunities, the defense appearing unsettled and the goaltending falling short of expectations.
Connor McDavid, the driving force of the Oilers' offense, didn't register a shot on goal, while Draisaitl managed three shots. Stuart Skinner was pulled after allowing five goals on 13 shots, resulting in an underwhelming save percentage of .615%.
Also Read: Fans bash Edmonton Oilers for 6-0 loss to Winnipeg Jets
Leon Draisaitl calls for improved offensive play struggles against Connor Hellebuyck
Draisaitl stressed the importance of improving the Oilers' offensive play following their struggles against Jets netminder Connor Hellebuyck.
While acknowledging Hellebuyck's solid performance, the 28-year-old German pointed out that the team must also take responsibility for their shortcomings. He said:
"We can certainly be a lot better offensively, too. create more looks for ourselves, get more inside. i do think we had enough to score a couple, but obviously it wasn't meant to be."
Hellebuyck ended the night with 30 saves. Mason Appleton collected three points, while Adam Lowry, Josh Morrissey, Nino Niederreiter and Mark Scheifele picked up two points apiece for the Winnipeg Jets.
Leon Draisaitl and the Oilers next host the Chicago Blackhawks at Rogers Place on Saturday. The puck drops at 10 p.m. ET.
