Oilers Edge Closer to NHL Record with 16-Game Winning Streak
The Edmonton Oilers are on the verge of hockey history, having extended their impressive winning streak to 16 games. They now stand just one victory shy of equalling the longest winning run on record in the National Hockey League. This feat has been powered by the star performances of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, who have been instrumental in the team's exceptional form.
Edmonton's latest triumph, a 4-1 victory against the Nashville Predators, further solidified their position as a formidable force in the league. Throughout the streak, McDavid and Draisaitl have been the dynamic duo, providing the offensive firepower the Oilers have depended on. Both players contributed significantly in the game against the Predators, with each notching one goal and two assists.
In addition to the offensive prowess, goaltender Stuart Skinner has been a wall between the pipes, making 28 saves in the latest win and establishing a new franchise record with 12 consecutive wins himself. The Oilers, with Skinner's help, have allowed the fewest goals in the league this season, underscoring the team's balanced strength at both ends of the ice.
However, the story has been different for the Predators, who have experienced a slump with three losses in their last four outings. Facing a surging Oilers team, they struggled to find their rhythm and allowed Edmonton to take control early in the game with a power play goal midway through the first period.
Dynamic Duo: McDavid and Draisaitl's Impressive Season
Throughout the season, McDavid and Draisaitl have displayed an uncanny ability to operate in unison, amassing a combined total of 28 goals and 76 assists so far. Their synergy has been a driving factor in the team's success and has seen them climb the individual scoring charts at an unprecedented pace.
Draisaitl, in particular, reached a major career milestone against the Predators by securing his 800th career point. He achieved this feat at a blistering speed, becoming the fourth-fastest player in NHL history to reach the 800-point mark.
Both players have previously been recognized for their individual brilliance, with Draisaitl winning the Hart Memorial Trophy in 2020 and McDavid taking home the coveted award in 2017, 2021, and most recently in 2023. These accolades are a testament to their significance not just to the Oilers, but to the league as a whole.
Chasing History
As they eye the record books, the Oilers' winning streak has allowed them to match the second-longest run of consecutive victories held by the Columbus Jackets. However, the all-time record is still held by the Pittsburgh Penguins, who in the 1992-93 season closed out 17 straight games with wins. That historic marker is now within reach for Edmonton, with their next game scheduled against the formidable Vegas Golden Knights on February 6th.
The Oilers' relentless pursuit of victory began on December 21st with a win over the New York Islanders, and since then their record has been an astonishing 15-0-1 during the streak. Looking at a broader picture, the Oilers have been dominant over their last 27 games, boasting a 24-3-0 record - a stretch of performance that has undoubtedly reinforced their reputation as a powerhouse in the current NHL season.
Highlighting their defensive strength, the team has set a franchise-record streak by not allowing more than two goals in 14 consecutive games. This defensive reliability has provided a solid foundation for the team's attack to flourish.
Player Perspectives on the Winning Streak
Even amidst exceptional success, the Oilers stars remain introspective and aware of the team's areas for improvement. "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," said team captain Connor McDavid, highlighting the collective effort responsible for their recent outcomes.
Leon Draisaitl also shared his insights, acknowledging the gritty nature of some of the victories. "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," said Draisaitl.
Together, the Oilers have navigated a path of unprecedented success, and now with their sights firmly set on February 6th, they have the opportunity to etch their names alongside the greatest teams in hockey history. As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on the Oilers to see whether they can equal, or perhaps even surpass, the legendary winning streak held by the Penguins for nearly three decades.