The Edmonton Oilers fell to the Calgary Flames in a close 4-3 game just before the NHL Olympic break, highlighting ongoing issues with their goaltending and penalty kill. As the team heads into the pause, the Oilers find themselves struggling to maintain momentum, particularly due to inconsistent defense and missed opportunities in net.
Though the game featured standout performances from Leon Draisaitl and other star players, it was ultimately Devin Cooley’s 36-save night for the Flames that proved decisive in handing the Oilers another tough defeat.
Goalie Challenges Continue Against Calgary
For the second consecutive game, Edmonton faced an opponent’s goalie not usually in the starting role, and again, the Oilers found scoring to be a daunting task. Devin Cooley’s strong performance made scoring difficult, reflecting a deeper problem with Edmonton’s ability to generate quality chances and traffic in front of the net.
Two of Calgary’s goals came on the power play, while Kasperi Kapanen contributed a key even-strength goal, showing both his shooting power and benefiting from a rare Oilers defensive lapse.
If you’re Kappy & you know it 😁 #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/h35i4RQsVg
— Edmonton Oilers
Excluding that single mistake, Cooley effectively kept the Oilers off the scoreboard at even strength. However, Edmonton’s defense lacked the necessary presence and scrappiness in front of the crease, which must improve after the break to avoid letting opposing goalies repeatedly steal games from them.
A 36-SAVE NIGHT FOR DEVIN COOLEY TO GIVE THE FLAMES THE WIN AGAINST THE OILERS ‼️ pic.twitter.com/ZTYSqqBsP0
— Sportsnet
The defensive game overall remains weak, but increasing pressure on net-front plays could help both disrupt opponent shooters and give Oilers’ forwards more second chances. This is a critical area for practice once the offseason pause ends.
Penalty Kill Woes Deepen Concerns
Edmonton’s penalty kill unit struggled again, surrendering goals on Calgary’s first two power play opportunities. Leon Draisaitl was blunt in assessing the team’s special teams effort postgame, labeling the current status of the penalty kill as “not good enough right now.”
SNIPE! pic.twitter.com/pKEiIV0cNx
— Calgary Flames
Shooters shoot 🔥 pic.twitter.com/cxWuAgNECc
— Calgary Flames
This persistent problem has sparked calls from fans and analysts alike for changes, with some social media voices even advocating for the dismissal of Assistant Coach Mark Stuart, who oversees the penalty kill. Whether changes come through new personnel, a tactical overhaul, or both, the Oilers must act swiftly, as continuing with the current approach risks undermining their playoff chances.
Goaltender Performance Remains Inconsistent
Tristan Jarry received the start in net, aiming for a rebound after a rough outing against Minnesota. His opportunity to secure more starts after the Olympic break was crucial, particularly since Connor Ingram’s recent save percentage remained below .900. However, Jarry’s performance mirrored that of Ingram, stopping 21 of 25 shots, equating to an .840 save percentage and falling short when it counted most.
The winning goal by Calgary saw Jarry scrambling when steadiness was essential, emphasizing the urgent need for goalies to regain form during the break.
THE LOMBORGHINI! pic.twitter.com/wwNEHVHEQm
— Calgary Flames
Both goaltenders appear in need of a reset, with Jarry under particular pressure to meet expectations as the designated starter. The upcoming pause provides a vital chance for rest and recalibration, but the Oilers will require noticeable improvements in timely saves moving forward with no room for excuses.
Leading Players Show Signs of Recovery Despite Loss
After being silenced in a scoreless game against Toronto, Edmonton’s elite players found the scoreboard against Calgary, offering some hope despite the loss. Leon Draisaitl netted two power play goals, each assisted by Evan Bouchard, while Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Connor McDavid added assists, demonstrating that the team’s top talents can contribute when fully engaged.
Leon with the lift 🛗 #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/F7vbO7mUYZ
— Edmonton Oilers
ROCK⭐️ZONE‼️ #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/Dwr26bpweF
— Edmonton Oilers
Bouchard additionally assisted on Kapanen’s goal, reflecting a stronger offensive showing from key players compared to the prior outing. Still, these individual efforts were insufficient to secure a win as systemic flaws persisted.
Oilers’ Representation at the Milan Olympic Games
As the NHL pauses for the Olympics, Edmonton will send three players overseas: Connor McDavid suits up for Team Canada, while Leon Draisaitl and Josh Samanski represent Germany.
Though some argue more Oilers athletes might have deserved selection, having three participants is a notable achievement. Fans hope both teams perform well on the international stage, and realize the national pride shared by Canadian supporters and those cheering for Draisaitl and Samanski’s German squad alike.
These Olympic appearances will offer valuable experience for the players and a temporary break for the team to regroup before returning to an intense second half of the season.
If you're Kappy & you know it 😁 #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/h35i4RQsVg
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) February 5, 2026
A 36-SAVE NIGHT FOR DEVIN COOLEY TO GIVE THE FLAMES THE WIN AGAINST THE OILERS ‼️ pic.twitter.com/ZTYSqqBsP0
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) February 5, 2026
SNIPE! pic.twitter.com/pKEiIV0cNx
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) February 5, 2026
Shooters shoot 🔥 pic.twitter.com/cxWuAgNECc
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) February 5, 2026
THE LOMBORGHINI! pic.twitter.com/wwNEHVHEQm
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) February 5, 2026
Leon with the lift 🛗 #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/F7vbO7mUYZ
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) February 5, 2026
ROCK⭐️ZONE‼️ #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/Dwr26bpweF
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) February 5, 2026
