Edmonton Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl made a spectacular return to the ice on Saturday, March 29, 2025, leading his team to a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory over the Calgary Flames. After missing four games due to a lower-body injury, Draisaitl not only rejoined the lineup but also became the NHL's first 50-goal scorer this season, marking the fourth time in his career he has reached this milestone.
The game took place at Rogers Place, where the stakes were high for both teams. The Oilers, currently vying for home-ice advantage in the playoffs, faced a Flames squad desperate to secure a wild-card spot. As the game commenced, it was clear both teams were ready for battle.
Draisaitl wasted no time making an impact. He notched his first goal of the game with just 3:12 remaining in the third period, tying the score at 2-2. He received a beautiful pass from defenseman Evan Bouchard, cutting in from the right wing to beat Flames goaltender Dustin Wolf with a precise shot. This goal not only marked his 50th of the season but also tied him with Jari Kurri for the second-most 50-goal seasons in Oilers history, trailing only Wayne Gretzky.
In overtime, Draisaitl struck again, scoring the game-winner just 2:25 into the extra frame. A slick drop pass from Jeff Skinner set him up perfectly, and he unleashed a powerful shot past Wolf, sealing the victory for Edmonton. With this goal, Draisaitl increased his total to 51 for the season, solidifying his position as the league leader.
“It feels amazing to come back and contribute like this,” Draisaitl said after the game. “The team needed this win, and I’m just glad I could help out.” His return was vital, especially with star forward Connor McDavid and top defenseman Mattias Ekholm still sidelined with injuries.
The Oilers' performance was not solely dependent on Draisaitl. Viktor Arvidsson also made his mark by scoring Edmonton's first goal of the night, while Darnell Nurse contributed with two assists, showcasing the depth of the Oilers' lineup despite missing key players.
The Flames, on the other hand, were left reeling after the loss. They had taken a 2-1 lead earlier in the game with goals from Yegor Sharangovich and Brayden Pachal. However, they could not hold onto that lead, and with their playoff hopes dwindling, the pressure is mounting.
Calvin Pickard was solid in net for the Oilers, making 26 saves, while Wolf matched him with 26 saves for the Flames. The game was tightly contested, with both teams recording 11 Grade A shots and four 5-alarm shots throughout the match.
With this victory, the Oilers improved their record to 42-26-5, moving into a tie for second place in the Pacific Division alongside the Los Angeles Kings. Meanwhile, the Flames fell to 34-26-12, now sitting seven points back of the St. Louis Blues and Minnesota Wild in the race for the playoffs.
“We need to regroup and focus on the next game,” Flames' forward Nazem Kadri stated after the match. “Every point matters at this stage in the season.” Kadri did manage to reach a personal milestone during the game, recording his 700th career NHL point with an assist on Calgary's opening goal.
The rivalry between these two Alberta teams continues to heat up, with the Oilers having outscored the Flames 1,016 to 1,012 in their combined clashes, including playoffs, leading into this matchup.
As the Oilers prepare for their next challenge against the Vegas Golden Knights on April 1, 2025, Draisaitl's return could not have come at a better time. With McDavid and Skinner expected to return soon, the Oilers are looking to build momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.
Fans are hopeful that this victory will spark a resurgence for the Oilers as they aim for a deep playoff run. Draisaitl's performance is a promising sign, and with key players returning, the Oilers are poised to be a formidable opponent in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, the Flames will look to bounce back as they head to Colorado to face the Avalanche on March 31, 2025. With their playoff hopes hanging in the balance, every game counts as they strive to secure a spot in the postseason.
