Here’s a bold statement: Even as Connor McDavid’s historic point streak reaches 20 games, the Edmonton Oilers couldn’t seal the deal, falling 4-3 in overtime to the Nashville Predators. But here’s where it gets controversial—while McDavid’s two assists extended his NHL-leading streak, it wasn’t enough to secure the win, leaving fans wondering if the Oilers are truly playoff contenders. And this is the part most people miss: Roman Josi’s clutch performance, including the overtime winner, not only saved the Predators but also tied him for 11th place in NHL history for game-winning goals by a defenseman. Is Josi’s impact underrated in the league? Let’s dive in.
On Tuesday night at Bridgestone Arena, McDavid’s streak hit a career-high 20 games, with 46 points (19 goals, 27 assists) during this remarkable run. Yet, the Oilers’ loss overshadowed his achievement. Meanwhile, Josi’s heroics—scoring his second goal of the game just 3:43 into overtime—highlighted Nashville’s resilience. Here’s the kicker: After a slow start to the season, the Predators are now knocking on the playoff door, proving that hard work pays off. But is their late-season surge sustainable? That’s up for debate.
The game itself was a rollercoaster. Steven Stamkos opened the scoring for Nashville, notching his 602nd career goal and passing Jari Kurri in the NHL record books. Edmonton’s Leon Draisaitl responded with a goal and two assists, while Zach Hyman added two goals of his own. Yet, it was Josi’s slap shot late in the third period that forced overtime, setting the stage for his game-winner. And this is the part most people miss: Despite McDavid’s brilliance, the Oilers’ turnovers and slow start cost them the game. Is Edmonton’s reliance on their stars a weakness?
Nashville’s Juuse Saros made 28 saves, while Edmonton’s Tristan Jarry, returning from an 11-game injury absence, stopped 23 shots. Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch noted, ‘We looked a step behind… too many turnovers allowed them to counter.’ Meanwhile, Josi reflected on his team’s turnaround: ‘We’ve rallied and come back… it shows the hard work we’ve put in.’
Here’s a thought-provoking question: With McDavid and Draisaitl leading the charge, why can’t the Oilers consistently dominate? Is it a matter of depth, coaching, or something else entirely? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Fun fact: Josi’s game-winner tied him with Brian Leetch for the third-most game-winning goals by a defenseman with a single franchise. Only Ray Bourque and Denis Potvin have more. Controversial take: Is Josi’s legacy underrated compared to other NHL defensemen? Let the debate begin.
As the Oilers welcome back key players like Jarry and Jake Walman, Hyman remains optimistic: ‘We’ve got another level to get to.’ But will it be enough? Only time will tell. One thing’s for sure: this season is far from over, and the drama is just heating up.
