*8* play on Edmonton Oilers.

The Edmonton Oilers will be looking to end an ugly three-game skid as they return home from a four-game trek for a match-up against the Toronto Maple Leafs Thursday. The Leafs have opened a five-game trip of their own with a pair of losses at Ottawa and Calgary, and odds are they'll struggle at Edmonton as well.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. The Reeling Maple Leafs - Toronto has recorded only one win in regulation over its last 14 games. It has been outscored 10-4 over its last two alone and the roster is a bit of a mess at the moment after a blockbuster nine-player deal Tuesday in which it parted ways with captain Dion Phaneuf among others.

2. Connor McDavid - The rookie sensation has seven points in five games after missing 37 with a broken clavicle. He has nine points over his last seven at home.

3. X-Factor - The Oilers have won 11 of their last 16 home at Rexall Place.

Selection: This is a play on the Edmonton Oilers (8*)