Oilers Off To A Great Start

The Edmonton Oilers are off to a strong start. Through the first 13 days of the NHL season, they remain the league’s only team without a regulation loss. Edmonton sits at 4-0-1, collecting points in each of its first five games.

Coming into the season, the Oilers knew how important it was to get off to a fast start. So far, they are delivering. With four wins already on the board early in the schedule. Edmonton is putting itself in a strong position as it looks to build momentum and establish itself as a contender once again.

At this time last season, Edmonton was still searching for consistency, posting a 2-2-1 record through their first five games. The Oilers slipped to 4-5-1 after 10 contests. This season, however, the story has been considerably different. Edmonton got off to a strong start and remains unbeaten in regulation.

Plenty of theories have been offered to explain the Oilers’ early success, and while some certainly hold merit, none tells the whole story. The real reason behind Edmonton’s impressive start may be something that goes beyond the usual explanations.

Oilers Stars Are Scoring Again

Some have pointed to Mike Babcock’s influence, the team’s improved depth scoring, or the emergence of Devon Levi as key factors in the difference. And while all three have certainly played a role, in my opinion, the answer is much more straightforward. The biggest difference comes down to Edmonton’s three superstar players.

Last season, over a five-game stretch, the Edmonton Oilers’ offensive production from their three key players was an interesting story. Connor McDavid led the way with seven points, all coming as assists, while Leon Draisaitl contributed three goals and four points. Evan Bouchard, meanwhile, was held off the scoresheet entirely.

Combined, the trio recorded three goals, 11 assists, and 14 points in five games, with McDavid accounting for half of their total production.

This year, the Oilers are getting outstanding production from their star-studded trio of Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evan Bouchard. McDavid has recorded three goals and 13 points this season, while Draisaitl has contributed three goals and nine points. Bouchard has been particularly impressive offensively, leading the group with six goals and 12 points.

Combined, the three Oilers stars have accounted for 12 goals, 22 assists, and 34 points, highlighting just how important their offensive contributions have been to Edmonton’s success. They’ve combined for nine more goals, 11 more assists, and 20 more points than last season.