Viel's Trash Talk: Oilers' Wake-Up Call?

0:00On April 26, in Game 3 of their playoff series, Anaheim Ducks forward, Jeffrey Veele lit the lamp late in the third period, grabbing a two-goal, lead that his team held on to with an empty netter for a big win. The 29-year-old journeyman, who's only got a handful of career goals, celebrated by barking at the entire Edmonton Euler's bench as he skated, by. That move might just backfire big time. The Euler stars, like Conor McDavid, Leon Drysidal, Evan Bouchard, and others have been quiet so far, held in check by the Ducks' solid defense through the first three games. They've looked worn out after a long season, struggling to find their rhythm against a gritty Anaheim squad that's punching above its weight. Now, fans and pundits are buzzing that Veele's trash talk could be the spark these guys need, like poking a sleeping giant. Edmonton's top talent usually turns it up in the playoffs, and getting chirped by a fourth liner isn't sitting well. Expect some fire in Game 4.

1:02Meanwhile, the Euler's had been here before, and bounced back strong. Last year, they dropped the first two to the Kings before winning four straight. The season prior, they overcame deficits against Vancouver, and who could forget rallying from down three-nothing to force a Game 7 in the Stanley? Cup final. Game 4 hit soon, and if Veele woke the beast, Edmonton could flip this series on its head. Keep an eye on those big guns roaring back. You've been listening to NHL News today, AI Power Team Coverage.