The Edmonton Oilers are navigating a typical slow start to the 2025-26 season, marked by inconsistent play and injuries. Key forward Zach Hyman's return is imminent in early November, while Ryan Nugent-Hopkins has provided a bright spot with strong early production. Trade rumors link the team to goaltender Ilya Sorokin as a potential long-shot target.
The Edmonton Oilers have experienced an up-and-down beginning to the 2025-26 season, with wins and losses alternating as they aim to avoid their historical October struggles. Through the early games, the team has shown flashes of potential but lacks consistency, prompting discussions on lineup adjustments and potential roster moves.
Head coach Kris Knoblauch has been experimenting with forward line combinations, rarely keeping them static from game to game. Strong performances came in visits to the New York Rangers and a recent loss to the Vancouver Canucks, but the Oilers need to settle on effective pairings. A recent 6-5 victory over the Montreal Canadiens exemplified their roller-coaster style, with the score tied 1-1 after the first period, Edmonton leading 3-1 early in the second, Montreal surging to 5-3, and the Oilers rallying in the third for the win.
Injuries continue to hinder lineup stability. Zach Hyman remains sidelined until at least early November, with his return date confirmed by Knoblauch. Fellow forward Mattias Janmark's timeline is uncertain, and defenseman Alec Regula is also out. Getting these players back will be crucial, as past injury issues cost the team wins late last season.
On a positive note, veteran forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins has started impressively in his first 10 games, recording five goals and six assists for 11 points. He ranks tied for second on the team in points, second in goals, and second in assists, building on his recovery from a playoff injury last season.
Goaltending rumors have surfaced amid concerns over depth. Stuart Skinner has performed well early, but Calvin Pickard has struggled. Analysts like Matt Larkin of Daily Faceoff list New York Islanders goaltender Ilya Sorokin as a 'pipe dream' trade target, alongside Juuse Saros and Joey Daccord. More realistic options include Elvis Merzlikins, John Gibson, Cam Talbot, and Tristan Jarry. The team could also promote Connor Ingram from the AHL. Hyman's activation will require cap maneuvers, potentially via trade or waivers, to spark a turnaround.