Oil Gusher: Cogliano hits rare air

Just a few sports notes, and then I'll get back to politics. I haven't had much reason to write about my Edmonton Oilers too much this season, but recent developments have certainly motivated me, that's for sure. The playoffs are a pipe dream for the Oilers this year, but next year, things are bound to be different.

The team is now owned by billionaire Daryl Katz, who has promised not only a new arena, but aggressive spending to get free agents.

But, best of all, there is plenty of young talent, led by #13, Andrew Cogliano (above left). Last night, the 20-year old center scored his third consecutive OT game winner, an NHL record. So much for the number 13 being unlucky. I still find it hard to believe - three games in a row, three overtime winners, all by Cogliano, a rookie sensation who will look good in Oiler silks for many years to come.

Here are the three winners, beginning with the first one vs. the Blue Jackets...

OT game winner #2 vs. the Blackhawks. This goal tied Cogliano with some pretty heady company with one of my favorite winners ever, #17, Jari Kurri, who scored two consecutive OT winners, but eight games apart in the 1980s.

And last night vs. the Blues, with just a few ticks left in OT...

Together with Sam Gagner, Robert Nilsson and Dustin Penner, along with a slew of talented, young defensemen and a surprise goalie in Mathieu Garon, Edmonton should compete for a playoff spot next season, and it can't get here soon enough.

As much as I love hockey, it really blows when the playoffs come and your team isn't in it.