The Edmonton Oilers are proving once again that they know exactly when to elevate their game. With the Stanley Cup Playoffs looming, the team has found another gear — this time doing it without one of their most important players. Leon Draisaitl’s absence due to a lower-body injury could have disrupted their momentum, but instead, it has sparked a collective push that has the Oilers surging up the standings.
Winners of five straight games, the Oilers have surged into a tie for first place in the Pacific Division alongside the Anaheim Ducks. While the Oilers currently hold the tiebreaker with more regulation wins, the Ducks have one game in hand. Still, Edmonton is firmly in control of its own destiny and is building momentum at the perfect time.
Oilers Focused on One Goal: Clinch a Spot
Despite the strong push toward the top of the division, the mindset inside the Oilers’ locker room remains simple — get in first, worry about everything else later.
“Everybody just kind of ramped it up with it being close to playoff time and we’re still jostling for a spot and positioning,” said captain Connor McDavid. “These games matter and we’re dug in.”
That urgency has been evident in Edmonton’s play. The team is not getting ahead of itself, even with a division title within reach. “Just putting the ‘X’ beside our name is the main thing, just getting in, that’s our main focus,” McDavid added.
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It’s a grounded approach from a team that has been to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals. While home-ice advantage and seeding matter, the Oilers understand that simply getting into the postseason is what truly counts.
“Where we’re seeded, I’m not too concerned about it. We can start a series on the road, we can start a series at home, we’re pretty comfortable either way. We just have to get in,” emphasized McDavid about the importance of clinching.
Next Man Up Mentality Paying Off
Draisaitl’s injury left a massive hole in the lineup. As one of the league’s most dominant forwards, his ability to drive offence, control possession, and produce in clutch moments is nearly impossible to replace. But instead of trying to replicate his production through one player, the Oilers have embraced a full team approach.
That mentality has been evident across the lineup, particularly within the bottom six. With increased ice time and responsibility, players who were previously in more limited roles are stepping up in meaningful ways.
Max Jones has brought a physical edge and energy that has translated into sustained offensive zone pressure. Trent Frederic has added grit and versatility, showing he can contribute beyond just a checking role. Josh Samanski has developed into a solid bottom-six centre in his first NHL season, proving to be reliable defensively while also earning time on the penalty kill when called upon.
Perhaps the most notable development has been Adam Henrique. After going 51 games without finding the back of the net, Henrique finally broke through, scoring his first goal since October. It may seem like a small moment in the grand scheme of the season, but for a player like Henrique, it could be a turning point. Depth scoring is often the difference in tight playoff games, and the Oilers are starting to see contributions from throughout the lineup.
Savoie Continuing to Impress
Matthew Savoie has also been a key factor in Edmonton’s recent success. The young forward continues to produce at a high level, scoring the game-winning goal in a 3-1 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks. His confidence is growing, and it’s translating into consistent offensive production.
Savoie is playing with confidence, using his speed and skill to generate offence while also showing a willingness to compete in key areas of the ice.
“The past few weeks we’re really buying in,” Savoie said. “We know how important this time of year is and the push we have to make.” His recent production, four goals in his last five games and 14 points in his last 18, has added another dynamic element to Edmonton’s offence at a crucial time.
McDavid Leading the Charge
As expected, McDavid continues to lead by example. While his five-game goal-scoring streak came to an end, he still contributed with an assist, extending his point streak and maintaining his position atop the NHL scoring race.
More importantly, McDavid’s leadership has set the tone for how the team is approaching this stretch. There is no panic, no overthinking — just a clear focus on doing whatever it takes to secure a playoff spot.
That mindset has translated into a more complete team effort. The Oilers are playing structured hockey, limiting mistakes, and capitalizing on their opportunities.
Goaltending Finding Its Form
Another key factor in Edmonton’s recent surge has been the stability in net. Tristan Jarry, in particular, looks like he’s finding his game at the perfect time. Over his last two starts, Jarry has gone 2-0-0 with a 1.50 goals-against average (GAA) and a .917 save percentage (SV%) — numbers that not only reflect strong performances but also suggest his confidence is growing with each outing. He’s making timely saves, staying composed under pressure, and giving the Oilers exactly what they need down the stretch.
Connor Ingram has also played an important role, providing the Oilers with solid and consistent goaltending over his last five games. Posting a 3-2-0 record with a .906 SV%, Ingram has been steady between the pipes, helping stabilize the crease while the team continues its push up the standings.
With both goaltenders finding their rhythm, the Oilers are getting reliable performances in net — something that could prove to be a major difference-maker as they head into the playoffs.
Playing Complete Hockey
One of the most encouraging signs for the Oilers during this stretch has been their ability to win as a team. They are no longer relying solely on their top stars to carry the load. Instead, they are getting contributions from every line, solid defensive play, and timely goaltending.
Their record when scoring first — now sitting at an impressive 29-5-5 — highlights how effective they can be when playing with a lead. It also underscores their ability to manage games, something that becomes increasingly important in the playoffs.
Special teams have also been consistent, and the team’s overall structure has improved. They are limiting high-danger chances against while still generating enough offence to win games.
Eyeing History—and More
The possibility of winning the Pacific Division for the first time since 1987 adds another layer of motivation. While the primary goal remains a deep playoff run, securing the division title would be a significant milestone for the organization.
More importantly, it would reflect just how far this team has come. From dealing with injuries and inconsistency earlier in the season to now sitting atop the standings, the Oilers have shown resilience and adaptability.
Looking Ahead
The Oilers’ immediate goal remains clear: clinch a playoff spot. But if this level of play continues, a division title is well within reach.
More importantly, this stretch without Draisaitl could end up being a turning point. Players have stepped into bigger roles, confidence has grown, and the team has become more well-rounded.
The real test will come when Draisaitl returns. If the Oilers can maintain this depth-driven approach while reintegrating one of the league’s elite players, they could become an even more dangerous team heading into the postseason.
For now, though, the message is simple — and it’s coming straight from their captain. Get in first. Then worry about the rest later.
