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Will Connor McDavid Explode Offensively on His Birthday?
GREG WOHLFORD/ERIE TIMES-NEWS / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Edmonton Oilers take on the Los Angeles Kings on Monday night, with Connor McDavid coming into the game after going pointless and a plus/minus-3. McDavid has tried to rebound from a handful of pointless nights before. What makes this different is that it’s on his birthday. That’s probably not good news for the Kings.

Already likely to have a good game because he’s turning 28 years old, McDavid doesn’t love the fact he’s been held off the scoresheet three times in the past five games. He’s due for an offensive explosion.

Some fans took to social media to congratulate him. Others pointed out that he has no Stanley Cups in his time in the NHL, and at 28, the clock is starting to tick. Sure, he’s got lots of time left to win, but he’s no longer the spring chicken that entered the NHL as a potential generational talent pegged to do big things. He’s proven himself to be the best in that game. What’s left on his bucket list is to win it all.

Don’t think for one second that’s not weighing on his mind.

He’ll take things one game, even one shift at a time. As milestones like this come up and force a player to reflect on what has and hasn’t happened, the Oilers should expect a little extra pep in the step of their dynamic captain Monday night.

Take The Over on Everything McDavid

When it comes to points, shots, goals, and whatever else… tonight might be a good night to take the over. Not only will McDavid be motivated, but this game means something extra. It’s against the Kings, a bitter Oiler rival.

The two teams are close in the standings and don’t like each other much. There is a playoff rivalry here that no one can ignore. And, with a little added motivation, McDavid might hit the ice with a point to prove.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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