Oilers Showing Early Season Strength Despite Offensive Struggles

Early Season Success Amid Offensive Woes

The Edmonton Oilers have gotten off to a strong start in the 2025-26 NHL season, posting a 2-0-1 record through their first three games. However, the high-powered Oilers offense has yet to fully click, scoring just eight goals so far.

Despite the limited offensive output, the Oilers have found ways to win, thanks in large part to the stellar goaltending of Stuart Skinner. The 24-year-old netminder has been a brick wall, posting a 30-save shutout against the New York Rangers and stifling several other quality scoring chances.

Increased Physicality and Defensive Play

Beyond Skinner's heroics, the Oilers have also seen marked improvements in their physical play and defensive commitment. Through the first three games, Edmonton has recorded 56 hits and 54 blocked shots - significant increases from the same period last season.

"The aforementioned factors all have a part in amounting to what is probably the most telling stat about the Oilers thus far in 2025-26: they have yet to trail," noted The Hockey Writers. This stands in stark contrast to last season, when the Oilers frequently found themselves playing from behind.

Offensive Contributors Needed

While the Oilers' defensive structure and goaltending have been strong, the team's offensive stars - led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl - have yet to fully ignite. Newcomers like David Tomasek and Kasperi Kapanen have had opportunities to contribute, but the Oilers are still searching for a consistent offensive breakthrough.

"It's still early, and the Oilers are winning," The New York Times reported. "It's not like there's a need to panic yet. The offensive blips are still worth noting."

As the Oilers continue their early-season road trip, all eyes will be on McDavid, Draisaitl, and the supporting cast to find their scoring touch and complement the team's strong defensive play.

TL;DR

  • The Edmonton Oilers have started the 2025-26 season with a 2-0-1 record despite struggling offensively
  • Goaltender Stuart Skinner has been outstanding, posting a shutout and stifling opposing scoring chances
  • The Oilers have shown significant improvements in physicality and defensive commitment compared to last season
  • Edmonton's offensive stars, led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, have yet to fully ignite, but the team remains confident the goals will come