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Oilers sink Ducks, set up interesting test against Pacific-leading Sharks

Edmonton Oilers v Anaheim Ducks

ANAHEIM, CA - JANUARY 25: Leon Draisaitl #29 of the Edmonton Oilers scores a second period goal against John Gibson #36 of the Anaheim Ducks at the Honda Center on January 25, 2017 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

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The Edmonton Oilers did the San Jose Sharks a bit of a favor by beating the Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday. Maybe they’ll say thanks when the Oilers and Sharks meet tomorrow?

Regardless, it was an impressive showing by Edmonton, handily winning the sort of “low-event” contest few associate with the Oilers. It wasn’t close on the scoreboard, either, as they beat Anaheim 4-0.

The battle for the Pacific Division crown remains tight, as all three of the top teams are in the running:

1. Sharks - 64 points in 49 games
2. Ducks - 63 points in 51 games
3. Oilers - 62 points in 50 games

Leon Draisaitl was one of the standouts, scoring two goals (including the 1-0 game-winner). Zack Kassian showed a little burst on what was probably the prettiest tally of the contest:

Nifty.

Cam Talbot continues to be lights-out in January, turning aside all 26 Ducks for a shutout. Here’s one of his best saves:

Fans can debate if it’s appropriate to call this a “statement game,” but it’s pretty reasonable to say that the Oilers look like they’re very likely to make the playoffs. Nights like tonight and Thursday’s test against the Sharks may merely specify where they fit in.