Opener Exposes Defensive Concerns

Edmonton lost 6-5 to Vancouver in overtime on September 29 despite Bouchard's historic five-point night and Podkolzin's two goals. Babcock called the defensive effort unacceptable, with odd-man rushes, poor pinches, special-teams breakdowns and Jarry's six-goal outing putting defensive structure and goaltending under immediate scrutiny ahead of the rematch.