The Edmonton Oilers have had an uneven start to the 2025–26 season, with a 5-4-2 record, and are currently sitting fourth in the Pacific Division. Their offense has looked sharp at times, averaging just over three goals per game, but slow starts have hurt them.
After a strong 6-3 win against Utah, the Oilers are hoping to build some momentum heading into their next game against the New York Rangers on Oct. 30.
What Did Hyman Say About the Oilers’ Early Struggles?
Hyman spoke candidly about the Oilers’ start while recovering from a wrist injury. The 33-year-old forward had surgery in the offseason after getting hurt in the Western Conference Final. He missed training camp but has returned to skating with the team at Rogers Place.
Talking to reporters, Hyman shared his thoughts on how the team has looked so far.
“I think for whatever reason, our starts haven’t been the greatest, obviously,” he said. “But I do see a lot of positives in our group, a lot of resilience, guys finding their game of late, and I think the last week has been really good, even if we haven’t won every game.”
He also mentioned the lineup changes and how that has affected team chemistry.
“I feel like the new guys are settling in, we’ve had a lot of turnover to our lineup,” he said. “It’s not easy when you’ve got that much turnover to find your role, your place, where you fit in the lineup.”
Hyman sounded hopeful about the team’s direction as players adjust to their roles.
“I think we’ve got a good mould of where everybody fits right now. And I’m excited to come back and join the group and bring some new energy, whenever that is.”
Was There Frustration Among Oilers’ Players Last Week?
There was clear frustration in the Oilers’ locker room as they lost back-to-back games against the Seattle Kraken and Vancouver Canucks. After the Oilers lost 3-2 to Seattle last Saturday, coach Kris Knoblauch provided a clear picture of the tension brewing in the locker room due to their slow start.
“I think there’s some frustration [right now],” Knoblauch said. “We expect more out of ourselves, and playing better.”
A day after that, the Oilers once again fell short on Sunday, this time against Vancouver. Leon Draisaitl scored two goals in their 4-3 overtime loss, and he was not happy.
“Obviously, [Draisaitl] he’s frustrated with the way things have been going right now, and we’re not winning more games than we have been…” Knoblauch said.
Their win against Utah has given the team a brief relief, but they need to keep winning games here.
