Oilers' Losing Streak Extends to Three Games After Defeat to Flames
The Edmonton Oilers suffered a 4-3 loss to the Calgary Flames on Wednesday night, marking their third consecutive defeat and dropping their season record to 28-22-8. This setback in the Battle of Alberta rivalry came against a Flames team preparing for the trade deadline, leaving the Oilers just two points behind the first-place Vegas Golden Knights in the Pacific Division.
Leon Draisaitl Voices Frustration Over Team's Inconsistency
Following the game, veteran forward Leon Draisaitl expressed his frustration in a rare public critique, emphasizing that everyone in the organization needs to improve, including the coaching staff. Draisaitl highlighted the team's inability to sustain winning streaks despite back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances, stating, "This league is too hard to just lollygag through games and try to get winning streaks going."
He continued, "You need everybody. It starts with coaches. Everybody. You're never going to win if you have four or five guys going and it starts at the top. We can be better. Our leaders can be better. We'll take the break and regroup." The Oilers have not won more than three games in a row all season, with only one such streak occurring recently, which included two overtime victories.
Defensive Struggles and Goaltending Issues Under Scrutiny
The Oilers' defensive woes were on full display as Tristan Jarry allowed four goals on 25 shots against Calgary. The Flames capitalized with two power-play goals from Jonathan Huberdeau and Matvei Gridin, exacerbating Edmonton's challenges. Draisaitl pointed out the team's defensive shortcomings, saying, "We're just giving up too many goals. I don't know. Can't defend. The penalty kill is not great. But with as many things that are part of it, it's just not good enough right now."
He acknowledged that goaltending needs improvement but stressed that defensive issues begin with the skaters. "It goes hand in hand," Draisaitl explained. "We got to defend better. We've 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." His comments came as the team heads into the Olympic break starting Friday.
Playoff Positioning and Upcoming Challenges
Despite the losses, the Oilers remain second in the Pacific Division, but they hold only a one-point lead over the Anaheim Ducks for the second wild card spot. The Los Angeles Kings trail by four points but have games in hand on Edmonton. The Oilers will return to action on February 25 against the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center, where they will aim to break their losing streak and solidify their playoff position.
The recent home losses, including a 7-3 defeat to Minnesota and a 5-2 loss to Toronto before the Calgary game, have intensified pressure on the team. Draisaitl's urgent call for improvement underscores the need for a collective effort to address defensive lapses and regain momentum as the season progresses.
