Edmonton Oilers Aim to Capitalize on Favorable January Home Schedule

The Edmonton Oilers are gearing up for a pivotal stretch in their 2025-2026 NHL season, with a significant portion of their upcoming games set to take place at Rogers Place. This favorable schedule presents a prime opportunity for the team to solidify their position atop the Pacific Division.

Following the holiday break, the Oilers will play 13 of their next 18 games on home ice. This includes an impressive eight-game homestand from January 18 to February 3, featuring matchups against formidable opponents such as the St. Louis Blues, New Jersey Devils, Pittsburgh Penguins, Washington Capitals, Anaheim Ducks, San Jose Sharks, Minnesota Wild, and Toronto Maple Leafs. 

Captain Connor McDavid expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming schedule, noting that the extended home stint "suits him" and offers a prime opportunity for the group to solidify their lead in the division before the Olympic break in February.

The Oilers' home advantage is further bolstered by the passionate support of their fans. Rogers Place has consistently been a fortress for the team, with the crowd's energy often serving as a catalyst for strong performances. This season, the Oilers have demonstrated resilience and skill, attributes they aim to leverage during this critical period.

In addition to the on-ice action, the Oilers organization remains deeply committed to the Edmonton community. The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation (EOCF) recently launched the "Holidays in Oil Country" 50/50 raffle, running until December 21. Proceeds from this initiative support local charities, including 880 CHED Santas Anonymous, the Christmas Bureau of Edmonton, Make-A-Wish Canada, and Hope Mission. 

As the Oilers embark on this crucial stretch, the combination of a favorable schedule, home-ice advantage, and community support positions them well to strengthen their division lead and build momentum heading into the latter half of the season.

Tonight’s Projected Lineup vs. Calgary Flames

Based on morning skates and recent roster moves, the Oilers are expected to roll with these lines:

• Forwards:

  • Nugent-Hopkins — McDavid — Hyman

  • Podkolzin — Draisaitl — Roslovic

  • Mangiapane — Henrique — Savoie

  • Max Jones — Trent Frederic — Janmark

• Defense:

  • Ekholm — Bouchard

  • Nurse — Regula

  • Stastney — Emberson

• Goaltending:

  • Starter: Connor Ingram (Projected)

  • Backup: Calvin Pickard

 

Note: Trent Frederic returns to the lineup tonight after being a healthy scratch earlier this week, replacing Curtis Lazar. David Tomasek remains scratched as he awaits his contract termination paperwork.