NHL: Stanley Cup Final-Florida Panthers at Edmonton Oilers

NHL: Stanley Cup Final – Florida Panthers at Edmonton Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers’ 8-1 thumping of the Florida Panthers in Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Finals seemed like a breakout party for a team that’s been struggling offensively. While the Oilers poured on the scoring, everyone got in on the action except for three players.

Considering the high goal total, it was somewhat surprising to see that not everyone got on the scoresheet in Game 4. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the three Edmonton Oilers players who did not register a point against the Florida Panthers.

3 Edmonton Oilers players who did not register a point in Game 4 victory against Florida Panthers

#1: Philip Broberg

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Broberg has played well overall on the second pairing with Darnell Nurse. While Nurse notched his first goal of the postseason, Broberg went pointless. But that’s all right, considering Broberg’s crucial role in anchoring the defensive side of the game.

Ultimately, Broberg was a plus-3, providing the solid defensive play Nurse needed to wheel and deal all over the ice. Broberg should remain a mainstay on the Oilers’ blue line, given his strong defensive play and potential to contribute offensively.

#2: Derek Ryan

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Ryan was the only Edmonton Oilers forward that didn’t get on the scoresheet. He has predominantly played as the fourth-line center, seeing limited ice time throughout the postseason. Coach Kris Knoblauch tends to shorten his bench, especially in tight situations.

Overall, Ryan only played a little mover nine minutes in Game 4. His task was to match up against some of the Panthers’ better players. As such, he didn’t get as many scoring opportunities as some of his other teammates. Look for Ryan to continue his defense-first checking assignments, especially in situations where Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl need a break during shifts.

#3: Cody Ceci

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Ceci has been known as a defensive defenseman his entire career. He’s never been characterized as a high-speed blue liner who gets into rushes or joins the attack. As such, his role on the Edmonton Oilers’ bottom pairing makes him a valuable player in a shutdown role alongside partner Brett Kulak.

Given Ceci’s predominant role on defense, he went pointless in the Edmonton Oilers’ rout of the Panthers in Game 4. Nevertheless, Ceci has shown good instincts and vision for the puck. He racked up 25 points in 71 games during the regular season. So, Ceci can register a solid offensive output for a third-pairing defenseman.