Edmonton Oilers Edge Closer to NHL Record with Winning Streak
In a remarkable showcase of skill, resilience, and teamwork, the Edmonton Oilers have taken the hockey world by storm, securing a monumental 16-game winning streak. The Oilers now find themselves just one victory away from tying the National Hockey League record for the longest winning streak—a landmark currently held by the Pittsburgh Penguins who notched 17 consecutive wins during the 1992-93 season.
Edmonton's dynamic duo, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, continued to display their star quality, each having contributed one goal and two assists in the team's latest triumph against the Nashville Predators. The Oilers secured a convincing 4-1 win, pushing them closer to etching their names in the annals of NHL history.
Additional firepower was provided by Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Zach Hyman, who also found the back of the net, bolstering the Oilers' already impressive goal tally. But it wasn’t just the offense that shone during this streak; goaltender Stuart Skinner has been formidable between the pipes, making 28 saves in the game to set a franchise record for 12 consecutive wins.
The team's defensive prowess has been just as impressive, allowing the fewest goals in the league this season, underscoring a complete team effort that has fueled this extraordinary run.
Struggles for the Nashville Predators
In contrast to the Oilers' euphoria, the Nashville Predators have found the going tough, dropping three of their last four games. The team's struggles were evident when they succumbed to the Oilers, who initiated the barrage of goals midway through the first period, capitalizing on a power play to take a lead they would never relinquish.
Achievements and Records
Leon Draisaitl, in particular, had more than one reason to celebrate, having achieved his 800th career point in the NHL with the win. His feat comes as no surprise to those who have been following his stellar career, as he became the fourth-fastest player to reach this milestone. Draisaitl's accolades are a testament to his skill and consistency, with his most notable individual award being the Hart Memorial Trophy, which he clinched in 2020 for his exceptional play.
McDavid, not to be outdone, has also had a brush with individual glory, winning the Hart Memorial Trophy, awarded to the league's most valuable player, three times in his career—in 2017, 2021, and 2023. Together, McDavid and Draisaitl have amassed a staggering total of 28 goals and 76 assists for the season, underlying their value to the Oilers organization.
The Oilers now find themselves in elite company, sharing the second-longest winning streak with the Columbus Blue Jackets, another team that knows a thing or two about sustained success.
Looking Ahead
The Oilers are poised to challenge the record books when they face off against the Vegas Golden Knights on February 6th. Their historic winning streak commenced on December 21st with a decisive victory over the New York Islanders, and they haven’t looked back since. During the streak, the Oilers have an almost impeccable record of 15-0-1 and boast an impressive 24-3-0 tally over their last 27 games.
This squad has not only demonstrated their offensive capabilities but has achieved a franchise-record streak of 14 games without conceding more than two goals—a testament to their balanced approach and commitment to playing a full 200-foot game.
Player Perspectives
Reflecting on the team's recent performances and what the streak represents, McDavid said, "This past week wasn’t our best hockey and we found a way to get three wins, which is a great sign. We’ve gotten great goaltending, the back end has been good, the kill has been amazing, those are all good things."
Draisaitl, also speaking on the team's behalf, expressed pride in the Oilers' achievements so far and recognition of the effort required to sustain such a streak. "It takes a lot of good efforts and a lot of good games to get to that number. We have been a bit sloppy the last three games but have obviously had some individual performances that have gotten us the wins. You need that sometimes too. It’s been a great stretch for us," Draisaitl noted.
As the excitement builds around what might be a historic accomplishment, the Oilers remain focused. With their next game looming, they stand on the precipice of equaling a record many thought was untouchable, adding an extra layer of anticipation to an already electrifying NHL season.