oilers vs blues

Oilers vs. Blues: Robert Thomas Returns as St. Louis Tries to End Losing Streak Against Edmonton

The NHL’s Monday night spotlight shines on a pivotal matchup between the Edmonton Oilers and St. Louis Blues at Enterprise Center — a game layered with redemption, rivalry, and roster drama. With the Oilers riding momentum and the Blues desperate for a turnaround, this clash isn’t just about two points — it’s about momentum, identity, and the future of two franchises navigating different phases of their rebuilds.

At the heart of the narrative: Robert Thomas, the Blues’ top-line center, is returning to the lineup after an absence, set to face Connor McDavid and the high-octane Oilers offense. His return couldn’t come at a more critical time.

Recent Updates: Thomas Back in the Lineup, Blues on the Brink

The most significant development heading into the game is Robert Thomas’ return, confirmed by The Hockey News and echoed across NHL coverage. The Blues have been mired in a seven-game losing streak, and Thomas’ absence has been acutely felt. As the team’s primary playmaker and power-play quarterback, his return is expected to stabilize the offense and provide much-needed chemistry with key scorers like Jordan Kyrou and Dylan Holloway.

“Robert Thomas Returns To Blues Lineup Against Oilers” — The Hockey News, November 3, 2025

This isn’t just a morale boost — it’s a strategic necessity. The Blues’ struggles have been well-documented, and their inability to generate consistent offense has plagued them all season. According to NHL.com’s preview, the team has averaged just 2.42 goals per game, ranking 26th in the league. With Thomas back, the Blues hope to reverse a dismal record against Edmonton, having gone 0-2-1 in their last three meetings — including a pair of losses in 2023-24.

Meanwhile, the Oilers come into the game with confidence. As detailed in NHL.com’s official preview, they’re 6-4-3 this season, averaging 3.15 goals per game — good for top-10 in the league. Their power play operates at a league-best 33.3%, led by the dynamic duo of Connor McDavid (17 points) and Leon Draisaitl (9 goals). The Oilers’ offense is firing on all cylinders, and they’ll look to exploit a Blues defense that’s allowed 3.58 goals per game.

Contextual Background: A Rivalry Rekindled

While the Oilers and Blues aren’t traditional rivals like Oilers-Flames or Blues-Blackhawks, their recent history has developed a competitive edge — especially after the summer of 2024, when the Blues made a bold move by signing two key Oilers prospects via offer sheets: Philip Broberg (defenseman) and Dylan Holloway (forward).

This rare and aggressive tactic sent shockwaves through the league. Offer sheets are a nuclear option in NHL contract negotiations — used to force a team’s hand when a player is a restricted free agent. The Blues’ decision to target Broberg and Holloway was a statement: they were ready to rebuild, but on their terms.

As TSN reported, “Set to face Oilers, offer-sheet acquisitions Broberg, Holloway playing key roles for struggling Blues” — and the early returns are promising. Both players have been regular contributors, with Holloway already tallying points and Broberg logging top-four minutes on defense. Their presence adds a layer of personal stakes to this game — a reunion of sorts, where former Oilers prospects now face their old team in a high-pressure environment.

This isn’t just a hockey game — it’s a referendum on the Blues’ aggressive strategy. Did they make the right call by bypassing Edmonton’s control and investing in youth? Can Broberg and Holloway thrive under pressure? And how will the Oilers respond emotionally to seeing two players they developed now lining up against them?

Historically, the Blues have had recent success at home against the Oilers. As noted in the Blues’ official preview, St. Louis has earned points in three of their last four home games against Edmonton. The Enterprise Center has often been a fortress, and the Blues will lean on that home-ice advantage to snap their losing skid.

But the Oilers have evolved. With McDavid and Draisaitl in their prime, and a power play that can turn any game in seconds, Edmonton is no longer just a playoff hopeful — they’re a Stanley Cup contender. This game is a measuring stick for the Blues: can they compete with the elite?

Immediate Effects: What’s at Stake for Both Teams

For the Blues, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A win would: - End a seven-game losing streak - Boost morale and confidence in the locker room - Validate the decision to sign Broberg and Holloway - Provide a psychological edge in a rebuilding season

But a loss could deepen the crisis. With a 3-7-2 record, the Blues are already on the fringes of the playoff picture — and falling further behind in a competitive Western Conference. Fan frustration is rising, and pressure on head coach Drew Bannister is mounting. A loss to a top-tier team like the Oilers might not be surprising — but it could accelerate calls for change.

For the Oilers, the game is about consistency and dominance. They’re off to a solid start, but head coach Kris Knoblauch has been vocal about the team’s flaws. As reported in a recent analysis, “Oilers Head Coach Names Team's Biggest Flaws Amid Slow Start to NHL Season” — citing defensive lapses, inconsistent goaltending, and over-reliance on the power play.

“We’ve got to be better five-on-five,” Knoblauch said. “We can’t just rely on McDavid and Draisaitl to bail us out every night.”

This game is a chance to prove they can win without the power play. The Blues’ penalty kill ranks in the bottom third of the league (75.4%), so the Oilers will likely get chances. But if they can dominate at even strength, it signals a maturation of their game — a step toward true contender status.

From a betting and fan engagement perspective, the game is drawing significant attention. As The Columbus Dispatch and other sportsbooks report, the Oilers enter as favorites (-141 moneyline), with the Blues at +119. The over/under is set around 6.5 goals, reflecting the expectation of a high-scoring game.

How to Watch Oilers vs. Blues: Time, TV, and Streaming Info

For Canadian fans, here’s how to catch the action live:

• Date: Monday, November 3, 2025
• Time: 7:00 PM MT / 8:00 PM CT / 9:00 PM ET
• Location: Enterprise Center, St. Louis, MO
• TV (Canada): Sportsnet West, Sportsnet ONE
• Streaming: Sportsnet NOW, NHL Live (via Rogers, Bell, or Telus subscriptions)
• U.S. Broadcast: ESPN+, NHL Network (select regions)

The game will be available in 4K HDR for select streaming platforms, offering fans an immersive viewing experience. With both teams featuring star power and high-speed transitions, it’s a must-watch for NHL fans coast to coast.

The X-Factors: Who Could Decide the Game?

While McDavid and Draisaitl will naturally draw the spotlight, several under-the-radar players could tilt the outcome:

1. Robert Thomas – The Catalyst

Thomas’ return isn’t just about points — it’s about pace and puck possession. When he’s on the ice, the Blues’ offense flows better. His ability to control the neutral zone and create space for Kyrou and Holloway could neutralize Edmonton’s transition game.

2. Dylan Holloway – The Emotional Spark

Playing against his former team, Holloway will be motivated. He’s already shown flashes of his two-way potential, and this game could be his breakout moment. A goal or assist against Edmonton would be a symbolic win for the Blues’ front office.