Connor McDavid and his teammates just can't get going. © APA / JOE HRYCYCH

Edmonton poses many mysteries

They are the staggering giant in the NHL: The Edmonton Oilers entered the season as Stanley Cup contenders, but currently don't even occupy a playoff spot.

18 November 2025

From: sn

The Edmonton Oilers continue their quest for consistency. Two days after defeating the Carolina Hurricanes 4-3 in overtime, they suffered a heavy 1-5 loss to the Buffalo Sabres last night (CET).

The Sabres took the lead in the first period with a power-play goal by Noah Ostlund, but the Oilers responded in the 5th minute of the second period. Leon Draisaitl passed the puck across to the in-form Jack Roslovic, who fired a shot from mid-range to tie the game 1-1. However, Edmonton's momentum then faltered: Four minutes after the equalizer, Bowen Byram put the Sabres back in front, and a minute later Beck Malenstyn extended the lead to 3-1. In the final period, Noah Ostlund (8th minute) and Tage Thompson (18th minute) sealed the victory.

After 21 games this season, the Oilers have never won three games in a row. There are recurring performances where Edmonton lacks the necessary quality. The 1-9 debacle against the Colorado Avalanche on November 8th was a prime example. The loss in Buffalo, however, wasn't much better.


Last night's NHL results (CET):

Boston Bruins – Carolina Hurricanes 1:3
Buffalo Sabers – Edmonton Oilers 5:1
Florida Panthers – Vancouver Canucks 8:5
Washington Capitals – Los Angeles Kings 2:1
Columbus Blue Jackets – Montreal Canadiens 4:3
Anaheim Ducks – Utah Mammoth 3:2