The Edmonton Oilers have extended their remarkable run in the National Hockey League (NHL) with their 16th consecutive victory. The team is now on the cusp of equalling the league's longest winning streak record, with their sights firmly set on their upcoming game.
Dynamic duo Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl were instrumental in the team's latest triumph, a convincing 4-1 result over the Nashville Predators. Both players contributed a goal and two assists each, continuing their exceptional form this season.
Emerging victorious against the Predators not only extended the Oilers' streak but also demonstrated their formidable offensive capabilities. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Zach Hyman also found the back of the net, contributing to the comprehensive win.
In goal, Stuart Skinner has proven to be a steadfast protector of the Oilers' net, amassing an impressive count of 28 saves in the recent matchup. This performance has seen Skinner set a new franchise record with 12 consecutive victories - a testament to his skill between the posts.
Defensively, the Oilers have been the team to beat, boasting the league's stingiest goal concession record thus far. Conversely, the Predators seem to be wading through rough waters, having lost three out of their last four games.
The Oilers’ first strike of the game came midway through the opening period with a successful power play. This not only set the tone for the match but also marked a personal milestone for Draisaitl, who celebrated his 800th career point during the game. The feat has positioned him as the fourth-fastest player in NHL history to reach this scoring milestone.
Together, McDavid and Draisaitl have been nothing short of sensational, amassing a combined total of 28 goals and 76 assists during the season. Both have previously been recognized with the Hart Memorial Trophy - Draisaitl in 2020 and McDavid in 2017, 2021, and recently in 2023 - underscoring their value to the team.
With this 16-game winning run, the Oilers now match the second-longest streak in NHL history, a record formerly held solely by the Columbus Jackets. They are one win away from tying the all-time record of 17 consecutive victories, set by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 1992-93 season.
Looking ahead, the Oilers are preparing to face the Vegas Golden Knights on February 6th. This game presents an opportunity not just to tie the NHL record but to stamp their authority as a dominant force in the league.
The genesis of the Oilers' current streak dates back to December 21st, with a win over the New York Islanders. Since then, the team has skated to a record of 15-0-1, and they have been exceptional over their last 27 games, boasting a record of 24-3-0.
Notably, the Oilers have created a franchise record by allowing two or fewer goals in 14 consecutive matches - a streak that underscores the team's well-rounded strength and emphasizes their defensive prowess.
The sentiments within the team reflect a balance of satisfaction and grounded focus. "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," stated Connor McDavid, acknowledging both the achievements and the areas for continued diligence.
Meanwhile, Leon Draisaitl emphasized the contributions varying across the team: "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."
With the team's collective sights trained on extending the win streak and etching their names alongside the greats of the game, the upcoming match against the Golden Knights will be one to watch closely, as the Oilers seek to solidify their place in the annals of hockey history.
