, in the 2017-18 campaign, when McDavid has registered a single point, the squad is 12-12-1. When he picks up two or more in a game, the Oilers are 19-7-3.
On nights without a tick on the scoresheet, the Oilers record falls to 3-17-2, showing just how impactful McDavid is.
Head Coach Todd McLellan argued McDavid's case for the Hart.
"Mario Lemieux," the coach stated confidently. "A top end, elite icon in the League has done it before when a team hasn't made the playoffs."
McLellan was referencing the 1987-88 season when Lemieux received the award despite his Pittsburgh Penguins not making the playoffs. The forward tallied 70 goals and 168 points in 77 games. New Jersey edged New York and Pittsburgh that campaign by a single point.
"There's precedent for that type of player and for what Mario did for his team that year," continued McLellan.
"Case made."
LETESTU'S RETURN
Former Oiler Mark Letestu makes his return back to Edmonton for the first time since he was dealt to the Blue Jackets prior to the 2018 NHL Trade Deadline.
"I texted him last night for dinner but he blew me off," laughed Zack Kassian, who's making his return to the lineup after being sidelined with an injury. "He had family stuff to do at his house here. I'm obviously happy for him, he's playing well and got put into a great situation."
Letestu was a presence in the Oilers Dressing Room. McLellan confirmed as much during his media avail.
"He meant a lot to the Oilers," he said. "He's an Alberta kid that was passionate about being here and being part of the community and Oiler family."
Letestu had a career-year in the 2016-17 season, scoring 16 goals and 35 points. The support centre provided stability down the middle.
"He gave us everything he had in his time here," continued McLellan. "You can't quantify his impact on the team just by the stat sheet when you open it up and look at it."
LINEUP NOTES
As aforementioned, Kassian will slot back into the lineup after missing the last five games. He's expected to replace Iiro Pakarinen on the fourth line.
Lines at morning skate appeared to be:
RNH - McDavid - Rattie
Caggiula - Draisaitl - Aberg
Lucic - Strome - Puljujarvi
Slepyshev - Khaira - Kassian
Nurse - Larsson
Russell - Bear
Sekera - Benning
Cam Talbot is expected to get the nod in goal.
-- Paul Gazzola, EdmontonOilers.com