Khaira alluded to the team showing confidence this season after defeat, and how despite a list of late injuries today the Oilers are well-equipped for a bounceback and a series split.
"Obviously we're missing key players tonight, but the confidence we've had this year and the success we've had, I think we all believe in ourselves no matter what the lineup's going to be," he said. "I think this is a winnable game for us."
It starts right from puck drop with a strong start after the Oilers conceded two goals in the opening 13:32 of last night's defeat.
"I think the last couple of games, we've been chasing the game from behind and it takes a toll on you," Khaira continued. "Right from the beginning, we're going to have to check better, give up less scoring chances, and play a smarter game."
The uncharted territory of a back-to-back set of home and away contests isn't an excuse with both teams adjusting to the uniqueness of the schedule querk.
"It's a bit of a weird back-to-back. Since I've been here, we've never had something like this, but both teams are in the same sort of boat," Benning said. "It's late-night travel last night after our game, and we haven't had many back-to-backs this season. Guys know how they are and know how to deal with it, so big points tonight and we have a better effort in us tonight and hopefully split."
LINEUP NOTES
Khaira, with experience at both wing and centre, will do what's asked with holes in both positions for the Oilers tonight.
"Zack's a big part of this team," Khaira said. "He's an energy guy and he's a guy that gets everybody going top to bottom, so there are guys that are going to need to step up with me being one of them. We're going to have to be physical and show our presence early."
Tippett elaborated on Kassian's absence: "He's been a really good player for us, especially at 5-on-5. He has a presence out there. Obviously that line has been good all year, so he'll be missed that's for sure. But like I said, it's an opportunity for somebody else to jump in there and get some minutes and hopefully contribute."