In a thrilling matchup on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, the Edmonton Oilers edged the St. Louis Blues, 4-3, in a game that had major playoff implications. The Oilers, fighting to secure their spot in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, received a significant boost with the return of their captain, Connor McDavid, who made an immediate impact on the ice.
McDavid, who had been sidelined due to injury since March 20, 2025, when he faced the Winnipeg Jets, returned to the lineup and showcased his elite playmaking skills. He recorded three assists, including a key setup for Connor Brown, who scored the game-winning goal with just 21 seconds remaining. This victory not only improved the Oilers' standing in the Pacific Division but also brought them one step closer to clinching a playoff berth.
"It felt great to be back out there with the guys," McDavid said following the game. "We knew how important this win was for us, especially with the playoffs around the corner. Connor [Brown] made a great play, and I'm just glad I could help contribute to the win."
The Oilers entered the game needing a win to solidify their position in the postseason, battling with the Los Angeles Kings for the second spot in the Pacific Division. With McDavid’s return, the Oilers were able to field five defensemen and 13 forwards, a combination that proved effective against a Blues team that was riding a wave of momentum after snapping a 12-game winning streak just days prior against the Jets.
Despite the Blues' recent success, the Oilers struck first. McDavid intercepted a pass and quickly fed Brown, who buried the puck in the net to give Edmonton an early lead. This was Brown’s second goal of the game, showcasing his growing chemistry with McDavid. The duo's efforts were pivotal in turning the tide of the match.
The game was tightly contested, with both teams trading goals throughout. The Blues, who had been one of the hottest teams in the league, responded with a goal from their forward, Suter, who capitalized on a shorthanded opportunity, leveling the score at 2-2 in the second period. The back-and-forth nature of the game kept fans on the edge of their seats.
As the final period unfolded, the tension escalated. The Blues took a 3-2 lead midway through the third period, but the Oilers refused to back down. With McDavid orchestrating the play, Edmonton regained control, and Brown's late goal sealed the deal, much to the delight of the home crowd.
The Oilers' victory was a crucial step in their quest for playoff positioning. They currently sit in a tight race with the Kings, who have been equally determined to secure home-ice advantage for the first round of the playoffs. The Oilers and Kings are set to meet for the fourth consecutive time in the playoffs, and every game counts as they both aim for postseason glory.
"We know we have to be at our best if we want to go far this year," McDavid added. "Last year’s heartbreak in the finals is still fresh in our minds, and we’re determined to make a deeper run this time around. Every game matters, and we need to keep building on this momentum."
As the Oilers prepare for their next challenge, fans are hopeful that McDavid's return will propel the team to new heights. With the playoffs looming, the combination of McDavid and Leon Draisaitl has the potential to be a game-changer for Edmonton's postseason aspirations.
Looking ahead, the Oilers will need to maintain their focus and intensity as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season. The stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable as the team gears up for what promises to be an exhilarating playoff run.
In the meantime, the Blues will look to regroup after a hard-fought battle in Edmonton. Despite the loss, they remain in contention for a playoff spot and will aim to bounce back in their upcoming games. The competitive nature of the NHL ensures that every team will be fighting tooth and nail for a chance at the Stanley Cup.
With the playoff picture becoming clearer, fans from both sides are eager to see how the final weeks of the regular season unfold. The Oilers’ victory has set the stage for an exciting finish, and the return of Connor McDavid is just the spark Edmonton needed as they chase their championship dreams.
