DALLAS, TX - The Oilers are looking to end their Dads Trip on a high note with a win against the Dallas Stars.
"I think everybody here is focused on making sure we put it in a good effort versus the Central Division leading team. We weren't happy with the game we played against this team at home, so we're expecting a big response, and to do that in front of our family and friends, I think it's important," Head Coach Jay Woodcroft said about tonight's contest. "I think the people that we brought on this trip, it's a galvanizing force and we're looking to make them proud of us."
The trip has come at an important juncture in the Oilers schedule. The team believes they have left a few points on the table over the last week with a couple of extra-time losses and a game where they thoroughly outplayed the Anaheim Ducks, but a spectacular goaltending performance forced them to leave the contest empty handed. The Oilers head coach hopes that the shared experiences of this trip can bring the team together against a top-tier opponent on Wednesday night.
"What I like about these dads and mentors trips, and this is probably about my 14th or 15th year in the NHL, but what I like about them is that I think it galvanizes the group, especially in the middle of the season," Woodcroft said. "The dads and mentors bring in energy about them and I think that players really want to perform in front of their special guest."
The Oilers dads have been involved in all aspects of their son's day-to-day rigors of being a National Hockey League player. They've flown on the team charter, they've attended the practices, and shared meals and meetings with the group.
"I know that one thing our staff believes in is being open with everybody. Our guests are around us, they're sitting in meetings, they're in on the game plan," Woodcroft said.
Like any stereotypical hockey dad, they may even have a few suggestions for the man who is 43-23-5 since becoming an NHL head coach.
"I know that they have some advice for the coach sometimes as well and my ears are open," Woodcroft joked. "No, just kidding, but we're excited to have everybody with us, that's for sure."