The Edmonton Oilers continued their late-season push with a 5-2 win over the San Jose Sharks, collecting two points in a tight Pacific Division race.
The result kept Edmonton in first place by two points over the Vegas Golden Knights, as Connor McDavid had a banner night by scoring his third hat trick of the year and recording five total points against the Sharks.
With only three games remaining in the regular season, the Oilers seem to be emphasizing health as they prepare to try for another deep postseason run following back-to-back trips to the Stanley Cup Final.
That mindset became even more evident during the third period, when Edmonton made a change in net despite holding a three-goal lead.
Starting goaltender Connor Ingram did not return for the final frame after stopping eight of 10 shots through two periods.
Knoblauch addressed Ingram's status while speaking to reporters after the game.
“He felt a little discomfort (in the second period), came by our bench and obviously finished the period,” Kris Knoblauch said. “He got tested out in the training room, and then we felt it was best for him and our team not to push it and make something worse. Then we made that decision in between periods that Jarry would be going in.”
Tristan Jarry replaced Ingram and handled the third period without issue, stopping all four shots he faced.
Ingram remained on the bench during the third period, suggesting the health issue is not concerning.
The Oilers return to action for a road matchup against the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday at 4 p.m. ET.
