The Edmonton Oilers haven’t been the most entertaining bunch this season. While teams have always had their number due to their goaltending, recent games have also shown that the Oilers lack the grit and aggression necessary to win games.
So when the Oilers finally faced off against the Blue Jackets last night, they knew they had to bring in their top game. That’s exactly what one of their forwards did by picking a fight with Mathieu Olivier. However, one former NHL veteran is unhappy with the outcome.
Why Did This NHL Veteran Not Like the Oilers’ Latest Fight With Mathieu Olivier?
While the NHL might not be as physical as it used to be a few years ago, and while fights might be rare, they still happen. Last night’s first-period rumble between the Oilers and the Blue Jackets proved that enforcers are still alive in the NHL.
And Olivier happens to be one of the toughest men in the league right now. In an era where rules are much more stringent, his bouts with Ryan Reaves from the Sharks and Tyler Tucker from the Blues have gained a cult following.
So when Trent Frederic decided to wash off the label of not being physical enough put on him by critics, it was easy to choose which guy he would decide to throw hands with. The only issue was that Olivier absolutely demolished the young right winger.
Within minutes of the first period, Frederic dropped the Mitts with Olivier. But while he lost the fight and had to be taken off the ice, many fans believed this was exactly what the Oilers needed. But former NHL D-man Jason Demers had a different opinion on the standoff.
“This is what you don’t want! Guys, going outside character, all the respect to him, but why he’d fight Olivier is beyond me 😑,” he tweeted after the match. Demers has been involved in his fair share of fights over his 15-year career.
However, according to Demers, this wasn’t needed at all. He urged players to play their part and not do things they aren’t expected to do. Demers believes that while Frederic has to help the front line in scoring goals, fighting isn’t his strong suit, unlike someone like former Oilers forward Evander Kane.
Some believe that the weight of not scoring enough was what finally got to him. So far in his season, Frederic sits at only one point across 17 games. Fans believe that the media pressured him into it because if he couldn’t score, he had to fight other guys to pull his weight.
The Oilers’ recent loss to the Avs on Saturday also played a significant role in it. However, while his decision might not have been the best, Frederic’s throwdown did invigorate the Oilers.
They narrowly won the game with two third-period goals from Connor McDavid to tie the game. At the same time, Jack Roslovic netted the puck in overtime to secure the game for the Oilers.