Edmonton Oilers October 2025 three stars: recognizing excellence in a challenging month

The Edmonton Oilers wrapped up October 2025 with a 5-4-3 record, accumulating 13 points and sharing third place in the Pacific Division with their division rivals. While this represents their best October performance in three years, the month was marked by inconsistency, defensive lapses, and underwhelming goaltending that prevented the team from reaching its full potential. Despite these challenges, several players rose above the fray and delivered performances worthy of recognition.

As the calendar turns to November, identifying the Edmonton Oilers October 2025 three stars provides valuable insight into which players showed up when the team needed them most. These standout performers offer hope that the Oilers can build momentum and overcome their notorious slow-start tendencies as the season progresses.

Third star: Jake Walman brings stability to the blue line

Jake Walman’s delayed season debut due to injury proved to be worth the wait for the Edmonton Oilers. Missing the first six games created concern among fans, but once he returned to action on October 21 against the Ottawa Senators, he immediately demonstrated why management had signed him to a seven-year extension worth $7 million per season. In a month where the top defensive unit struggled significantly, Walman emerged as the team’s most reliable defenceman.

The 29-year-old made his season debut memorable by scoring the overtime winner, announcing his arrival in spectacular fashion. Over six games in October, he registered seven points including one goal, while maintaining a plus-4 rating—a stark contrast to the struggles of Mattias Ekholm, Evan Bouchard, and Darnell Nurse. His 19:50 average ice time per game reflected the coaching staff’s trust in his abilities.

Walman’s offensive instincts were on full display as he recorded three multi-point performances during the month. His ability to join the rush and create scoring opportunities from the back end provided a dimension that had been sorely lacking. Defensively, he contributed 14 blocked shots and showed the composure expected from a veteran presence. The Oilers vs Canadiens matchup on October 23 showcased his ability to contribute in meaningful games.

While he experienced one poor outing against the Vancouver Canucks on October 26, that performance represented the exception rather than the rule. His skating ability and puck-moving skills helped transition the Oilers from defence to offence more efficiently. The 2014 third-round pick has justified the faith shown in him with his contract extension, providing the defensive stability that will be crucial as the team navigates a challenging November schedule.

Second star: Leon Draisaitl shows flashes of dominance

Leon Draisaitl’s October embodied both excellence and inconsistency—a dichotomy that ultimately cost him the top spot among the Edmonton Oilers October 2025 three stars. When fully engaged, the German superstar remains one of the NHL’s most dangerous players, capable of taking over games single-handedly. His final week of October showcased the elite level he can reach, with dominant performances that reminded everyone why he’s considered among the league’s best.

Draisaitl finished the month with impressive counting stats: eight goals and 14 points across 12 games, along with a plus-4 rating. His chemistry with Connor McDavid continued to produce highlight-reel moments, and his physical presence in the offensive zone created space for his linemates. However, the underlying numbers reveal a concerning trend that prevents him from claiming first-star honors.

Only three goals and six points came at five-on-five strength, with the majority of his production occurring on the power play. While contributing to the team’s league-leading 30.3 percent power-play percentage is valuable, the Oilers need their superstar to generate more offense during even-strength situations. The team’s struggles to create scoring chances in regular play have placed additional pressure on special teams, and Draisaitl’s limited five-on-five impact has been noticeable.

The inconsistency in his engagement level remains the primary concern. In some contests, he appeared to be coasting through shifts, while in others he looked unstoppable. This Jekyll-and-Hyde approach might work during stretches of the regular season, but sustainable success requires the consistent excellence Draisaitl is capable of delivering. As the Oilers face a grueling November road schedule, they’ll need the best version of their star center every night.

First star: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins delivers consistency when it matters most

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins earned top billing among the Edmonton Oilers October 2025 three stars through sheer reliability and versatility. While flashier teammates grabbed headlines with spectacular individual performances, the 32-year-old veteran quietly became the Oilers’ most consistent forward throughout the month. His ability to excel in multiple roles and situations made him indispensable to a team searching for identity.

The former first-overall pick from 2011 posted five goals and 12 points in 12 games, but his contributions extended far beyond the scoresheet. Nugent-Hopkins logged the most penalty-kill ice time among Oilers forwards with 15:48, showcasing his defensive responsibility and two-way acumen. His defensive zone awareness and intelligent positioning helped limit high-danger chances against, even as the team struggled defensively as a unit.

His versatility proved invaluable as head coach Kris Knoblauch juggled line combinations searching for chemistry. Nugent-Hopkins seamlessly transitioned between serving as the third-line center and playing left wing alongside Connor McDavid on the top line. This adaptability without sacrificing production demonstrated his hockey IQ and professionalism. A highlight moment came during the 6-3 victory over Utah on October 28, when he executed a textbook give-and-go with McDavid for a beautiful goal.

On the power play, Nugent-Hopkins provided another dimension that opposing penalty killers had to account for. His presence created additional passing options and shooting threats that opened up space for Draisaitl and McDavid to operate. With three multi-point games and production in eight of twelve contests, he proved to be the steadying force the Oilers desperately needed. According to The Hockey Writers, his confidence level suggests he’ll continue this strong play into November.

Looking ahead: building on October’s foundation

The Edmonton Oilers October 2025 three stars represent beacons of hope in what was otherwise a turbulent month. Jake Walman’s defensive stability, Leon Draisaitl’s offensive firepower, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins’ all-around excellence provided the foundation for the team’s 5-4-3 record. However, the broader roster needs to elevate their performance levels to match these three standouts if the Oilers hope to climb the standings.

November presents a significant test with ten road games including a demanding seven-game Eastern Conference swing. The Oilers’ 2-4-1 road record compared to their 3-0-2 home mark highlights the challenge ahead. The team must improve defensively, generate more five-on-five offense, and receive better goaltending to compete with the league’s elite. Facing teams during challenging road stretches will test their resilience and ability to overcome adversity.

The positive news is that October 2025 marked the best opening month in three years for the franchise, suggesting upward trajectory despite the inconsistencies. If the rest of the roster can follow the example set by the three stars and raise their game, the Oilers possess the talent necessary to make a significant playoff push. The coming weeks will reveal whether October’s best performers can maintain their excellence while inspiring their teammates to reach similar heights. With Connor McDavid still capable of his own dominant stretches and key veterans finding their footing, the foundation exists for improvement as winter approaches.