The Edmonton Oilers came out flying in the first period against the Minnesota Wild, looking every bit like the high-powered team that’s surged through the NHL in recent months. The puck movement was crisp, the forecheck was aggressive, and Kris Knoblauch’s bench decisions had them humming early.
And then, just like that, the offense vanished. After scoring at 3:16 of the first, the Oilers didn’t find the net again until nearly halfway through the third-an offensive blackout that proved costly in a 7-3 loss.
But even in a tough defeat, Leon Draisaitl found a way to etch his name into franchise history.
Draisaitl Ties Messier on Historic Night
Draisaitl wasted no time making his mark. Less than four minutes into the game, he buried a goal that not only gave the Oilers an early lead-it also put him in elite company. That tally marked his 1,034th career point, tying him with the legendary Mark Messier for fourth-most in Oilers history.
To put that in perspective, the names ahead of him are the Mount Rushmore of Edmonton hockey. Next up on the list?
Jari Kurri, sitting just nine points away. After that, it’s the titans: Connor McDavid, who’s still climbing with 1,177 points and counting, and of course, Wayne Gretzky, whose 1,669 points in an Oilers sweater remain the gold standard.
It’s not just the number that stands out-it’s how Draisaitl got there. His goal came off pure instinct and execution, a solo effort that showcased the skill and hockey IQ that’s defined his career.
It was a moment that deserved to be celebrated. Unfortunately for Edmonton, the night didn’t follow that script.
A Hot Start, Then a Cold Front
After Draisaitl’s early strike, the Oilers hit a wall-and that wall’s name was Jesper Wallstedt. The Wild goaltender was lights out, turning aside 39 shots and finishing the night with a 92.9% save percentage. He didn’t just stop pucks-he shut down momentum.
Even with McDavid pushing the pace, Evan Bouchard jumping into the rush, and Draisaitl firing five shots of his own, the Oilers couldn’t solve Wallstedt again until it was too late. From the 19:24 mark of the first period until 12:43 of the third, Edmonton was held scoreless, a stretch that allowed Minnesota to pile on the goals and take full control.
Knoblauch’s group never found a second gear. The defensive breakdowns mounted, the energy waned, and the Wild took full advantage. By the time the final horn sounded, the Oilers had surrendered seven goals and watched what began as a milestone night for Draisaitl turn into a frustrating loss.
What It Means Moving Forward
There’s no sugarcoating a 7-3 defeat, especially when you’ve got the firepower Edmonton does. But Draisaitl’s milestone is a reminder of the elite talent this roster still boasts. He’s now shoulder-to-shoulder with Messier in the record books, and with Kurri firmly in his sights, it’s only a matter of time before he climbs even higher.
For the Oilers, the challenge is turning these individual achievements into team success. The offense can’t afford to disappear for two full periods, especially in games where the stakes are rising. With the playoff picture tightening, consistency-not just brilliance in flashes-will be the key.
Draisaitl’s night was historic. The game? A reminder that in this league, even the best need a full 60 minutes to win.