In a thrilling showdown on April 10, 2025, the Edmonton Oilers edged out the St. Louis Blues 4-3, thanks to a dramatic late-game effort led by captain Connor McDavid, who made a triumphant return after an eight-game absence due to a lower-body injury. The matchup was crucial for both teams as they aimed to secure a playoff spot, with the Oilers coming into the game with a record of 44-28-5 and the Blues looking to maintain their position in the playoff race.
McDavid’s return couldn’t have come at a better time for the injury-plagued Oilers. With several key players sidelined, including Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Jake Walman, the team was in dire need of their captain's leadership and skill on the ice. McDavid not only played but also showcased his playmaking abilities, contributing three assists in the game. His presence revitalized the team, as they battled through a tough match against a formidable Blues squad.
As the game unfolded, it was evident that both teams were determined to clinch a playoff berth. The first period saw the Blues take an early lead, but the Oilers responded with vigor. Connor Brown, who stepped up in McDavid’s absence, opened the scoring for the Oilers, netting his first goal early in the second period. Brown would go on to score again, sealing the victory with just 20 seconds left on the clock.
"It was massive," McDavid said of Brown’s game-winner. "That’s what it is all about, guys stepping up, and we’ve had different guys stepping up throughout this injury and sickness bug." Brown’s performance was instrumental, as he finished the game with two goals on three shots and a plus-3 rating.
The game was not without its challenges for the Oilers. They were forced to play with a depleted lineup, which included only five defensemen. Head coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledged the tough situation, stating, "It was a difficult situation for our group as a whole. Guys coming in and out of the lineup, sick, hurt, whatever… We had to go with five (defencemen)." Despite this, the Oilers managed to hold their ground and secure a vital win.
McDavid’s return was a game-time decision, as he had initially been slated to play on April 11 against the San Jose Sharks. However, upon realizing the team’s predicament, he pushed for a spot in the lineup. "I wasn’t taking anyone’s spot (in the lineup)," McDavid explained. "I thought it was an opportunity, and if it was no good, I would take a couple shifts and come off. Obviously, it felt good, no problems." His determination to help the team was palpable, and it paid off as he assisted on both of Brown's goals.
On the other side of the ice, the Blues were led by their top line of Robert Thomas, Pavel Buchnevich, and Jordan Kyrou, who combined for an impressive two goals and seven points throughout the match. However, despite their offensive prowess, it was the Oilers who emerged victorious, thanks in large part to McDavid’s leadership and Brown’s timely scoring.
With this victory, the Oilers improved their record to 45-28-5, moving them closer to clinching a playoff spot. The win, combined with the Calgary Flames’ overtime loss to the Anaheim Ducks, reduced Edmonton’s magic number to just one point to secure their playoff position. McDavid expressed confidence in his team’s ability to perform well as they approach the playoffs, stating, "It would be great to have our full lineup in, and get everybody up and running together and rolling like a big machine."
As the regular season winds down, the Oilers are still without several key players, including Leon Draisaitl, Mattias Ekholm, Stuart Skinner, Trent Frederic, and Evander Kane. McDavid emphasized the importance of individual readiness as they prepare for the postseason, saying, "Obviously that’s not the case, and it falls on everybody as individuals to make sure they’re doing whatever they’ve got to do to be ready come that opening game."
Despite the challenges faced this season, including injuries and a fluctuating lineup, the Oilers remain optimistic. Brown noted the growing confidence among the depth players, stating, "The last couple of weeks, a lot of guys have been finding their game, especially offensively. Guys have been finding a little touch with a few extra minutes." The team’s camaraderie has strengthened during this stretch, and they are eager to make a deep playoff run.
As the Oilers look to integrate their returning players into the lineup, the excitement builds for the upcoming playoff series, which is set to begin in just over a week. With McDavid back on the ice and players like Brown stepping up, the Oilers are ready to face the challenges ahead. "We understand that we’ve got a lot of dogs and guys that are hungry," Brown said, encapsulating the team's determination and spirit as they prepare for the postseason.
