The Edmonton Oilers faced off against the San Jose Sharks on April 16, 2025, in what marked the regular-season finale for both teams at the SAP Center. With the Oilers already securing their playoff spot, the stakes were high for both squads as they aimed to end the season on a positive note.
For the Oilers, the game was an opportunity to fine-tune their game ahead of the postseason where they are set to meet the Los Angeles Kings. As Edmonton goaltender Stuart Skinner put it, "It’s another opportunity for us to just go out there and play our game, find some more chemistry within the group with each other, just, you know, one last moment for us to really kick things in before the real season starts." Skinner, who was returning from an injury sustained during a game against the Colorado Avalanche, was eager to make an impact in his second game back.
Skinner had previously missed several games after a collision with Mikko Rantanen left him with a head injury. He shared, "At the time that it obviously sucks, but you can look at it, you know, one way or the other. I’m trying to look at it in the way of do the best thing for me … spend some time with the family. Really healed my mind." Tonight, he was ready to take the ice again, determined to help his team build momentum.
The Oilers entered the game with a record of 47 wins, 29 losses, and 5 overtime losses, while the Sharks were struggling at 20 wins, 49 losses, and 12 overtime losses, having lost their last 10 games. San Jose had allowed 307 goals while only scoring 208, resulting in a -99 goal differential. Despite their challenges, the Sharks were looking to end the season with a win against a formidable opponent.
In the matchup, the Oilers fielded a lineup that included star players like Connor McDavid, who was back after being scratched for precautionary reasons during a previous loss against the Kings. Coach Kris Knoblauch emphasized the importance of McDavid’s presence, stating, "It wasn’t quite a healthy scratch, but he is playing tonight, and I don’t think it’s [about] the milestone or hitting 100 points. I think in Connor’s mind, the most important thing is getting ready for the playoffs and doing everything he can so he’s at his best." McDavid was just two points shy of reaching the 100-point mark for the season, adding to the excitement surrounding his return.
However, the Oilers had to navigate the game without several key players due to injuries and suspensions. Leon Draisaitl, who had been a standout performer with 52 goals and 54 assists this season, missed his seventh consecutive game. Other notable absences included Zach Hyman, Evander Kane, and Darnell Nurse, who was serving a one-game suspension for a cross-check against LA's Quentin Byfield. Despite these setbacks, the Oilers were confident in their depth, with players like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Viktor Arvidsson stepping up.
The Sharks, on the other hand, were looking to turn their fortunes around with a projected lineup that featured Tyler Toffoli, Macklin Celebrini, and Will Smith among others. Their recent struggles were evident, as they had not secured a win in their last 10 outings, going 0-7-3 and averaging just 2.2 goals per game. Yet, players like Macklin Celebrini, who had tallied 25 goals and 38 assists this season, aimed to provide a spark for the team.
As the game commenced, the Oilers quickly asserted their dominance, showcasing their offensive prowess. The first period saw fast-paced action, with Edmonton controlling the puck and creating several scoring opportunities. Skinner, in goal, made crucial saves to keep the Sharks at bay, while the Oilers' forwards pushed hard against San Jose's defense.
Throughout the contest, the Oilers maintained a solid defensive structure, which had been a hallmark of their play this season. With a record of 25-9-3 in games where they had fewer penalties than their opponents, their disciplined approach was on full display. The Sharks struggled to find their rhythm, often falling victim to the Oilers' relentless forechecking.
As the game progressed, the Sharks attempted to mount a comeback, but the Oilers' experience and skill proved too much to handle. Edmonton's offense, led by McDavid and Nugent-Hopkins, continued to pressure Alexandar Georgiev in the Sharks' net. With each passing minute, the urgency grew for San Jose, who were desperate to avoid ending their season on a 11-game losing streak.
In the final moments of the game, the tension was palpable. The Oilers were determined to cement their momentum heading into the playoffs, while the Sharks were fighting to salvage some pride. The clock ticked down, and with Skinner standing tall in goal, the Oilers seemed poised to secure the victory.
As the final buzzer sounded, the Oilers emerged victorious, continuing their strong form as they prepared for their playoff matchup against the Kings. Coach Knoblauch expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, stating, "We needed this game to build confidence and chemistry ahead of the playoffs. Our guys showed up and played their game." The Oilers were now focused on their upcoming series, ready to make a deep playoff run.
For the Sharks, the loss was a bitter end to a challenging season. Despite the defeat, there were glimmers of hope for the future, with young talents like Celebrini and Smith gaining valuable experience. As the team looks to regroup and rebuild, the focus will be on developing their roster and finding ways to turn their fortunes around in the next season.
