Marjala Scores OT Winner as Howard Gets a Preseason Test
The Oilers beat Winnipeg 2-1, while Isaac Howard drew lessons from a low-event game in more than 17 minutes of ice time.
Viljami Marjala scored in overtime Tuesday to give the Edmonton Oilers a 2-1 preseason win at Winnipeg. Zach Hyman set up the winner after Atro Leppanen tied the game in the first period. The Jets outshot Edmonton 23-18.
For Oilers forward Isaac Howard, the game offered few chances to attack. He played more than 17 minutes, finished plus-1 and did not record a shot on goal.
“It was just a gritty game. There wasn't a ton of chances either way. I think we just stuck with it,” Howard told Sportsnet afterward. “I didn't think there was a ton going on that game. It was just a simple game.”
Coach Mike Babcock said young players who are used to having the puck can get frustrated when they see less of it in the NHL, and that trying to do too much can work against them. Howard's restrained performance did not cost the Oilers in a tight game.
Edmonton defenseman Shakir Mukhamadullin also made his preseason debut, playing 21:25. Babcock said Mukhamadullin's size and skating could help him in a depth role, provided he establishes a dependable defensive game.
The Oilers are 2-0 in preseason play. They visit Vancouver on Thursday before hosting Calgary on Saturday in their final exhibition game.
