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Oilers’ Struggles Continue in Tight Loss to Kraken: What Went Wrong?

Edmonton Oilers fans are no strangers to rollercoaster seasons, but the 2025-26 campaign is already testing their patience. After a thrilling 6-5 comeback win against the Montreal Canadiens just days earlier, the Oilers faced off against the Seattle Kraken in a low-scoring, low-energy affair — and came up short.

On October 25, 2025, the Kraken edged the Oilers 3-2, handing Edmonton its second loss in three games. The game, marked by defensive lapses, missed opportunities, and a standout performance from Seattle’s veteran winger Jordan Eberle, has sparked fresh concerns about the Oilers’ consistency, defensive structure, and ability to close out tight games.

For a team with Stanley Cup aspirations, this wasn’t just a loss — it was a warning sign.

What Happened in the Oilers-Kraken Showdown?

According to NHL.com’s official game recap, the Kraken struck early and often, with Jordan Eberle scoring twice, both goals set up by rising star Matty Beniers. The Oilers, despite a late push, couldn’t overcome the deficit.

Here’s how the game unfolded, based on verified reports:

• 1:02 into the first period: A quick turnover at the Oilers’ blue line led to a 2-on-1 rush. Matty Beniers fed Jordan Eberle, who buried a one-timer past Stuart Skinner to open the scoring.
• Midway through the second: Eberle struck again, this time on a power play, capitalizing on a defensive breakdown and a slick cross-ice pass from Beniers.
• Oilers respond: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins finally got Edmonton on the board late in the second with a wrist shot from the slot, cutting the lead to 2-1.
• Third period rally: Vasily Podkolzin tied the game at 2-2 with a gritty net-front goal, reigniting hope for a comeback.
• Kraken seal it: With under six minutes left, Jared McCann fired a shot from the left circle that beat Skinner cleanly, putting Seattle up 3-2. The Oilers pressed hard in the final minutes, but Kraken goalie Joey Daccord stood tall, making 34 saves — including a crucial stop on Connor McDavid with under 30 seconds left.

The final score: Seattle Kraken 3, Edmonton Oilers 2.

“It was a frustrating night,” said Oilers captain Connor McDavid, as reported by Sportsnet.ca. “We had chances. We just didn’t execute when it mattered. They capitalized, and we didn’t.”

The loss dropped the Oilers to 4-4-1 on the season — a far cry from the dominant start many expected after their deep playoff run last year.

Recent Updates: A Tale of Two Games

The Kraken loss came just two days after one of the Oilers’ most exciting games of the season — a 6-5 victory over the Montreal Canadiens on October 23.

That game, detailed in multiple verified sources, was a high-scoring, back-and-forth thriller:

• The Oilers fell behind 3-1 in the second period.
• They rallied with three unanswered goals in the third, including the game-winner by Vasily Podkolzin with just 1:09 left.
• Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid combined for five points.
• Rookie David Tomášek scored his first NHL goal, tying the game in the first period.
• The win improved Edmonton to 4-3-1, offering a glimmer of momentum.

But that momentum evaporated in Seattle.

The contrast between the two games is stark:

As Sportsnet.ca noted: “The Oilers are still searching for their game.” The team’s inconsistency — especially in the defensive zone and on the power play — is becoming a pattern.

Why This Loss Matters: Context and Concerns

The Oilers’ loss to the Kraken isn’t just about one game. It’s part of a broader narrative about team identity, defensive reliability, and depth.

1. Defensive Breakdowns Are a Growing Issue

Despite having one of the most potent offenses in the NHL, the Oilers have allowed three or more goals in six of their first nine games. Against the Kraken, they gave up three goals on just 24 shots — a troubling sign for a team that relies on its top line to outscore opponents.

Evan Bouchard, the Oilers’ top offensive defenseman, had a “rough night,” according to the Edmonton Journal, with multiple turnovers and poor positioning. His struggles are emblematic of a larger issue: Edmonton’s blue line lacks consistent shutdown defenders.

“We’re giving up too many easy chances,” said head coach Kris Knoblauch in post-game comments. “We need to be better in our own end. It’s not just one guy — it’s a team effort.”

2. The Power Play Is Inconsistent

The Oilers’ power play, once among the league’s best, has been inconsistent this season. Against the Kraken, they went 0-for-3, failing to capitalize on key opportunities. In the third period, with the game tied, a failed power play drained momentum and allowed Seattle to regroup.

3. Seattle’s Rise as a Playoff Contender

The Kraken, meanwhile, are off to their best start in franchise history. Their 3-2 win over the Oilers improved them to 6-2-1, and they’ve now defeated two of the Western Conference’s top teams (Vegas and Edmonton) in the past week.

Jordan Eberle, a former Oiler, was particularly motivated — scoring twice and adding an assist. His performance was a reminder of the talent Seattle has quietly built, especially in young players like Beniers and Daccord.

“Eberle’s been huge for us,” said Kraken head coach Dan Bylsma. “He’s a pro, a leader, and he showed up when we needed him.”

4. The Oilers’ Identity Crisis

Last season, the Oilers were a high-octane, high-risk team that thrived on McDavid and Draisaitl’s brilliance. But in the playoffs, they were exposed defensively — especially against teams that could slow the pace.

This season, they’re trying to find a balance between offense and defense, but they’re still figuring it out. The win over Montreal showed their offensive firepower. The loss to Seattle exposed their defensive flaws.

As Sportsnet.ca put it: “The Oilers are still searching for their game.” And with the season already a quarter over, time is running out to find it.

Immediate Effects: What Does This Mean for the Oilers?

The Kraken loss has immediate implications for the Oilers’ season:

1. Playoff Positioning

Edmonton is now 4-4-1, sitting in the middle of the Pacific Division. With teams like the Canucks, Kings, and Golden Knights off to strong starts, the Oilers can’t afford to fall further behind. Every loss in October counts in April.

2. Goaltending Concerns

Stuart Skinner, who started against the Kraken, has a .902 save percentage this season — below his career average. While he’s not the sole issue, the Oilers need more consistent goaltending, especially with the playoffs looming.

3. Trade Rumors and Roster Adjustments

With the team struggling defensively, trade rumors are already swirling. Names like Dmitry Orlov (Capitals) and Rasmus Ristolainen (Flyers) have been floated as potential targets. The Oilers may need to move a forward to acquire a top-four defenseman.

4. Fan and Media Pressure

Edmonton is a hockey-crazed city, and fans expect results. After last year’s deep playoff run, the bar is high. A .500 start is not acceptable for a team with McDavid and Draisaitl.

Social media was buzzing after the Kraken loss, with fans calling for changes — from line adjustments to coaching tweaks.

“We need to see more urgency,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “This team has the talent. Where’s the fire?