The Edmonton Oilers announced their fifth straight victory Thursday night, defeating the Chicago Blackhawks 3-1 at home. Connor McDavid assisted on Matt Savoie’s power-play goal, extending his NHL-leading points total to 126.
The win puts Edmonton level with Pacific Division leaders Anaheim at 87 points, though the Oilers have played one additional game.
Adam Henrique and Vasily Podkolzin also found the net for Edmonton. Tristan Jarry made 17 saves between the pipes.
The Oilers have won seven of their last nine games despite losing star forward Leon Draisaitl for the remainder of the regular season due to a lower-body injury.
Chicago’s loss was their fifth consecutive defeat, officially eliminating them from playoff contention. The Blackhawks haven’t reached the postseason in six years.
Nick Lardis scored Chicago’s lone goal. Spencer Knight stopped 31 shots for the Blackhawks, while Arvid Soderblom made four saves and allowed one goal during a brief appearance when Knight dealt with equipment issues.
McDavid’s five-game goal streak came to an end, but he continues to pace the league in scoring.
The 27-year-old captain has 43 goals and 83 assists this season, putting him two points ahead of Tampa Bay’s Nikita Kucherov for the NHL lead.
What’s Next
The Blackhawks travel to Seattle on Saturday night.
Edmonton hosts Vegas on Saturday night.
