Oilers lineup tonight: Edmonton’s projected lineup for game against the Washington Capitals | January 21, 2025

On the evening of January 21, 2025, the Edmonton Oilers will take to the ice against the Washington Capitals in what promises to be an exciting matchup. With both teams looking to make strides in their respective seasons, the Oilers are hoping to keep their momentum going as they head into this critical game.

Edmonton has built a reputation in recent seasons as a high-powered offensive team, with some of the best players in the league driving their offensive game. As the Oilers prepare for their battle against the Capitals, we take a closer look at the projected lineup for tonight’s game. Who will be on the ice, and what roles will they be tasked with as the Oilers look to extend their winning streak or bounce back from a tough loss? This comprehensive analysis will break down the players expected to play, their current form, and the matchups that could define the game.

Edmonton Oilers Projected Lineup for January 21, 2025:

The Oilers’ lineup for tonight’s game against the Washington Capitals will likely reflect their typical high-octane offensive system, combined with a strong defensive core to mitigate the threats posed by Washington’s potent attack. Edmonton’s coaching staff, led by Jay Woodcroft, will make key decisions on line combinations and defensive pairings with the aim of maximizing the team’s strengths.

Forwards:

The Oilers’ forward group is filled with elite talent, headlined by the dynamic duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. These two players are among the best in the world and are capable of taking over a game at any moment. In front of a home crowd, both McDavid and Draisaitl will be central to Edmonton’s offensive strategy. Alongside them, players like Zach Hyman, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Evander Kane will look to provide offensive depth, drive the play, and create scoring opportunities for the team.

1. First Line:
   • Connor McDavid (C) – The best player in the world. McDavid’s ability to skate, create plays, and finish scoring chances is unmatched. He’s coming off another brilliant stretch of games, and his performance will be key to Edmonton’s success tonight.
   • Leon Draisaitl (C) – Draisaitl’s lethal shooting ability makes him one of the top offensive threats in the NHL. His chemistry with McDavid is undeniable, and the two are often a constant source of offense for the Oilers.
   • Zach Hyman (LW) – Hyman complements the McDavid-Draisaitl duo with his tenacity, ability to retrieve pucks, and work ethic around the net. His presence creates space for the skilled duo while adding some grit to the line.
2. Second Line:
   • Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (C) – As a versatile forward, Nugent-Hopkins can drive the play in both the defensive and offensive zones. His ability to make smart plays and his high hockey IQ makes him a vital component of the second line.
   • Evander Kane (LW) – Kane brings physicality, speed, and a knack for scoring goals. His physical presence around the net and his offensive upside make him a key player on this line. His ability to finish plays will be important in keeping the pressure on the Capitals’ defense.
   • Kailer Yamamoto (RW) – Yamamoto’s speed and skill allow him to play well on the second line. Though undersized, his ability to make plays and his tenacity make him a valuable asset for the Oilers.
3. Third Line:
   • Ryan McLeod (C) – McLeod is known for his speed and versatility. He provides solid depth on the third line and can be trusted in a shutdown role or as a player capable of creating offensive chances.
   • Mattias Janmark (LW) – Janmark brings a combination of skill and defensive responsibility to the third line. His presence on the penalty kill and his ability to drive play in transition make him an important piece for the Oilers’ bottom six.
   • Jesse Puljujärvi (RW) – Puljujärvi has been a consistent contributor for the Oilers, showing flashes of brilliance with his speed and shot. His size and strength make him an important presence along the boards and in front of the net.
4. Fourth Line:
   • Nugent-Hopkins (C) – While not expected to play on the fourth line in most games, it’s still possible to see some rotation, depending on the team’s overall needs.
   • Evan Bouchard is playing well despite being sidelined so far.

Defensemen:

Defensively, the Oilers have a talented core, though one that has been prone to mistakes at times this season. However, they also possess the speed and puck-moving abilities that make them an offensive threat from the back end.

1. First Pairing:
   • Darnell Nurse (LD) – Nurse’s leadership and physical presence on the ice make him the anchor of the Oilers’ defense. He’s capable of playing in all situations, whether it’s against opposing top lines or on the power play. His ability to move the puck and his offensive upside are key to the Oilers’ success.
   • Cody Ceci (RD) – Ceci complements Nurse with his steady play in his own zone. While not as flashy as some of Edmonton’s other defensemen, Ceci is reliable defensively and has the ability to move the puck quickly to the forwards.
2. Second Pairing:
   • Evan Bouchard (RD) – Bouchard has emerged as one of the more dynamic puck-moving defensemen in the league. His vision, passing, and ability to quarterback the power play are significant assets for the Oilers. He can be an offensive threat from the blue line, but also plays well in his own zone.
   • Brett Kulak (LD) – Kulak provides a steady defensive presence and is capable of playing in key situations. He’s been known for his ability to make smart decisions and play sound defensively. Kulak will be important in neutralizing Washington’s offensive attack.
3. Third Pairing:
   • Vincent Desharnais (LD) – Desharnais is known for his size and physicality. While not necessarily an offensive dynamo, his ability to clear the crease and use his body to protect the puck makes him a valuable asset on the bottom pairing.
   • Philip Broberg (RD) – Broberg brings a combination of skill and size to the third pair. As a young player, he’s continuing to develop his game but has already shown moments of brilliance with his skating and ability to move the puck out of the zone.

Goalies:

In goal, the Oilers are expected to go with Stuart Skinner, who has been excellent in net this season. Skinner has proven himself as a capable starter, and his ability to make key saves in tight moments will be crucial for Edmonton’s success.

1. Stuart Skinner (G) – Skinner’s emergence as a reliable starter has been a huge boost for the Oilers. He has shown the ability to steal games when needed and provide stability in net. Skinner’s quick reflexes, positioning, and confidence will be essential for the Oilers to keep Washington’s offense at bay.
2. Jack Campbell (G) – While Skinner is the likely starter, Campbell is a trusted backup who has proven himself capable of stepping in when needed. His experience and ability to make timely saves make him a valuable asset in the crease.

Washington Capitals: Key Threats and Matchups

The Washington Capitals are known for their mix of veteran experience and young talent. The Oilers will need to be wary of the Capitals’ offensive weapons, including Alex Ovechkin, Evgeny Kuznetsov, and John Carlson. These players have the ability to change the course of a game with their individual skill and playmaking ability.

The Oilers’ defensemen will need to be tight in coverage, especially when the Capitals are on the power play, where Ovechkin’s one-timer and the team’s overall structure can overwhelm opposing units.