After a disappointing loss, Canucks star forward JT Miller chose to apologize to his coach via text after a poor performance.
The Canucks were stymied through much of the night as the Oilers chose to put up a wall of defense around backup goalie Calvin Pickard as he had his first start ever in the NHL playoffs. The plan worked well and the Oilers only allowed 21 shots to help secure the victory of 3-2.
Tocchet said that his group is honest, and accountability is part of what Tocchet preaches with his players.
«It's an honest group,» said Tocchet. «I mean, J.T. Miller texted me today, ‘sorry, I had a bad (game).'
Tocchet felt differently giving praise to his star player. He felt Miller has been a force for him and has given a great performances overall.
«This guy's been unreal for me. One play, two plays doesn't define (it). Who cares about that? That games over. He's been a monster force; he'll be a monster for us. That's the way we work around here.
Oilers hope to continue their Defensive Wall
But it's apparent that the Oilers play is beginning to rattle the Canucks as Tocchet called out five players that have not pulled their weight and have not been a factor in offense and other areas of the game.
Meanwhile, Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch gambled, and it paid off with Pickard and having the Oilers work their defensive game well. Players like Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid must continue to be their best and continue to put many shots on Canucks third string goalie Artrus Silovs.
The Oilers will look to put two games together and take the series lead as Game 5 will be in Vancouver on Thursday May 16th and game time will be at 10:00pm.
