Oilers Coach Names Two Players for Recent Success After Slow Start

Kris Knoblauch credited Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl for driving the Edmonton Oilers’ recent success ahead of Saturday’s game against the Calgary Flames. The game will be played in Calgary at 10 p.m. EST.

Speaking to the media, Knoblauch pointed to the Oilers’ 8-2-1 record in their last 11 games before the break. He said the biggest reason has been the play of McDavid and Draisaitl.

“Well, I think a lot of our strengths, the way Connor and Leon have been playing, they’ve been our two best players,” Knoblauch said. “They are our two best players, and they’ve been playing like it. I think that has a lot to do with it. Special teams have been really good, especially our power play. Not sure what our rate is at during that stretch.”

McDavid continues to be the engine of Edmonton’s offense. He leads the NHL with 67 points through 38 games. That total includes 23 goals and 44 assists. He is also riding an 11-game point streak with 31 points. McDavid recorded five assists against Calgary earlier in the week. His line with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Zach Hyman remains intact.

Leon Draisaitl has also played a major role, scoring a hat trick in the same Flames game. He has 55 points this season and remains a strong finisher near the net.

Beyond scoring, Knoblauch praised the team’s defensive improvement. He said a better structure has helped Edmonton compete even on quieter offensive nights.

“I think we’ve been playing a lot better defensively,” Knoblauch said. “That has given us a chance every single night. Some nights you just don’t have it offensively, but as long as you’re checking and your defensive details are good, you give yourself a chance every night. I think we’ve done that.”

The Oilers sit at 19-13-6 and lead the Pacific Division. While defense and goaltending remain concerns, McDavid’s play continues to set the standard.

As Edmonton heads into another Battle of Alberta, their captain and assistant captain remain the main reasons for confidence.

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 27, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Oilers Coach Names Two Players for Recent Success After Slow Start

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