The Edmonton Oilers have encountered a difficult period marked by defensive issues despite maintaining a strong offense. While the team continues to put up goals, their inability to limit opponent chances has led to three consecutive losses, raising concerns about their defensive discipline and overall consistency.
This problem was especially evident following their latest defeat in a heated rivalry game, where players addressed these challenges candidly.
Draisaitl Highlights Defensive and Goaltending Shortcomings After Loss to Flames
In a 4-3 defeat to the Calgary Flames at the Scotiabank Saddledome on Wednesday, Edmonton’s losing streak reached three games. Leon Draisaitl contributed two power-play goals, Kasperi Kapanen scored once, and defenseman Evan Bouchard celebrated a milestone with three assists, marking his 300th career point. Despite overcoming a two-goal deficit to tie early in the third period, mistakes on defense allowed Calgary to regain control and secure the win.
Goaltender Tristan Jarry stopped 21 shots, but Edmonton struggled to contain Calgary’s offense during crucial moments. After the game, Draisaitl openly criticized the team’s defensive shortcomings, stating,
“Just giving up too many goals, can’t defend, penalty kill is not great. But there are many things that are part of it. Yeah, just not good enough right now.”
Leon Draisaitl, Oilers Forward
He further emphasized the link between defensive support and goaltending performance:
“It’s it goes hand in hand. We got to defend better. We got to make it easier on him, and then I’m sure, he can be a little bit better, too. It’s a two-way street, but it starts with us in front of him and then [the] game becomes a little bit easier for him, but I think there are saves that our goalies need to make at some point.”
Leon Draisaitl, Oilers Forward
Team Offense Remains Strong Amid Defensive Shortfalls
Despite the recent setbacks, Edmonton holds second place in the Pacific Division with a 28-22-8 record, buoyed by a potent offense. Connor McDavid leads the team with 96 points, while Draisaitl has amassed 80 points in 55 games, regularly logging more than 22 minutes on the ice each night. The Oilers average 3.42 goals per game and maintain the NHL’s best power play, yet their 3.28 goals-against average and 24th-ranked penalty kill expose critical vulnerabilities on defense and special teams.
Draisaitl’s recent form remains impressive, recording four goals and nine assists over six games, demonstrating his importance as a leader while the team seeks a better balance between offense and defense.
Upcoming Olympic Break Offers Chance for Reflection and Adjustment
With McDavid and Draisaitl set to join their national teams at the upcoming Olympics, Edmonton will have a pause in their NHL schedule before returning to face the Anaheim Ducks on February 25 at 10:30 p.m. ET. This break provides an opportunity to address the defensive lapses and improve penalty killing before resuming play.
As the Oilers prepare to regroup, enhancing defensive cohesion and reducing goals conceded will be key to halting their slide and staying competitive in a tight Pacific Division battle.
"Just not good enough right now."
Leon Draisaitl shares his thoughts after the #Oilers defeat in Calgary. @Enterprise | #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/PUJgUlly5Y
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) February 5, 2026
