The Oilers are at home vs. the Wild tonight. They have won 5 straight under a new coach, and in their last three games at least, seem to have re-found their scoring touch. To the negative side, they are beaten up, and playing in a back to back. The jury is still out on tonight’s expected goalie, Mike Smith, after a very long absence.

The Wild are 1-2 in their last three games, and have given up over 5 goals a game in that period. While Healthier and better-rested, they are missing a key defense-man, and tonight’s expected net-minder, Talbot, has struggled of late.

Both these teams are offense-driven, with below average defenses. The Wild’s recent propensity to give up goals is concerning. With the Oilers playing last night, some fatigue may be a factor, and it usually shows first on defense. I expect these to teams to do what they do best, which is put the puck in the net. Take tonight’s match-up to go over.