The Columbus Blue Jackets face off against the Edmonton Oilers tonight at Rogers Place, both teams searching for a crucial win to break out of their recent struggles. Here are three keys for the Blue Jackets to emerge victorious:

1. Capitalize on Edmonton's Defensive Lapses and Goaltending Woes

The Edmonton Oilers are coming off a disastrous 9-1 loss to the Colorado Avalanche. The Oilers have allowed 55 goals this season, which is tied for the sixth-most in the NHL. Goaltender Stuart Skinner, who was pulled in the previous game, has a concerning .889 save percentage. Calvin Pickard's save percentage is even lower at .836.

The Blue Jackets need to exploit this vulnerability by generating consistent offensive pressure. This means establishing a strong forecheck, winning puck battles in the offensive zone, and getting traffic in front of the net. Taking advantage of rebounds and creating second-chance opportunities will be crucial. According to coach Dean Evason, in their recent losses, the Blue Jackets have given up too many easy goals due to turnovers and defensive breakdowns. Minimizing these mistakes and forcing the Oilers to earn their goals will be vital.

2. Exploit Special Teams Mismatch

The Blue Jackets will need to address the special teams battle. Edmonton boasts the league's second-best power play. In contrast, Columbus has struggled on the penalty kill, ranking 27th in the league. Staying disciplined and avoiding unnecessary penalties will be paramount. When shorthanded, the Blue Jackets must be aggressive in clearing the puck and preventing the Oilers' skilled forwards from setting up in the offensive zone.

Conversely, the Blue Jackets need to improve their own power play, which ranks near the bottom of the league. This is an area they can potentially exploit, as the Oilers have been inconsistent defensively. Generating quality scoring chances with the man advantage could swing the game's momentum.

3. Neutralize McDavid and Draisaitl

Containing Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl is always a key to defeating the Oilers. McDavid has 22 points, while Draisaitl has 18 points. These two offensive powerhouses can change the game in an instant. The Blue Jackets' top defensemen, such as Zach Werenski and Ivan Provorov, will need to play a shutdown role, limiting their time and space and forcing them to make difficult plays.

The Blue Jackets must also focus on limiting the supporting cast around McDavid and Draisaitl. Jack Roslovic, who has been playing on the top line with McDavid, has been productive recently. Shutting down these secondary scoring threats will prevent the Oilers' offense from becoming overwhelming.

The Blue Jackets are currently on a three-game losing streak and are 0-3 on their current road trip. The Oilers are also looking to rebound after losing three straight. With both teams desperate for a win, expect a hard-fought and intense battle tonight in Edmonton.