Oilers Host Golden Knights in Pre-Holiday Pacific Division Clash EDMONTON, Alberta (Interstat) — The Edmonton Oilers look to rebound from a lopsided loss when they host the Vegas Golden Knights in a Sunday matinee at Rexall Place. The Oilers (17-19-0) were routed 5-2 by the Minnesota Wild on Saturday night, snapping a brief two-game win streak. Captain Connor McDavid scored his 22nd goal in the loss, continuing an offensive tear. The superstar center has recorded 22 points (12 goals, 10 assists) in his last 10 games, including a four-assist performance on Dec. 11 and a four-point night (3 goals, 1 assist) on Dec. 4. “We didn’t have it last night, from the net out,” Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch said. “The response is what matters. We have to be much sharper against a structured team like Vegas.” The Golden Knights (16-16-4) arrive after a 2-1 shootout loss to New Jersey on Wednesday, concluding a 3-1-2 homestand. Vegas has earned points in five of its last seven games (4-1-2) but has struggled to find consistent scoring, averaging 2.71 goals per game. Vegas forward Ivan Barbashev has been a bright spot, with points in five of his last 10 contests. His physical presence remains constant; he has registered 11 hits over his last four games. “We’re playing tight games, which is our identity,” Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy said. “We need to capitalize on our chances, especially against elite offensive teams. You know McDavid and that group will get theirs.” The teams are meeting for the first time this season. Edmonton won two of three matchups last year. According to National Statistical’s game simulator, the Oilers are projected to win 3-2. Edmonton’s power play, operating at 26.4%, ranks third in the NHL and will test a Vegas penalty kill ranked 12th (82.1%). The Oilers will need to tighten defensively after allowing five goals on 28 shots to Minnesota. “We have to manage the puck better and not feed their transition,” McDavid said. “They check hard and make you earn every inch.” The game is the last before the holiday break for both clubs. Edmonton hosts Calgary on Tuesday, while Vegas returns home to face San Jose the same night.