The Edmonton Oilers just blasted out of the gate with a 5-0-1 record, and yeah, that includes a plus-11 goal differential that screams “don’t mess with us.” They’ve been mauling opponents early on, every single one of their wins coming by at least two goals. Remember all those times they dug themselves an early hole in the Pacific Division standings? Looks like that isn’t happening in 2026-27.
Bouchard is Doing *What*?! Seriously.
You know Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are always doing their thing; McDavid’s already got a league-leading 17 points, and Draisaitl’s hit double-digits with 11. But can we talk about Evan Bouchard for a second? Dude’s the *real* star of the show right now. We always knew he was an offensive machine, but he’s gone next level this season. He’s tallied six goals and eight assists, rocking 14 points that leads all defensemen by a comfy margin. The craziest part? His five-on-five impacts are wild. When Bouchard’s on the ice, the Oilers have flat-out outscored opponents 15-2. That’s an absurd plus-12 goal differential at five-on-five, according to Natural Stat Trick. With Zach Hyman and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins out of the lineup, the Oilers haven’t missed a beat thanks to this trio. It’s wild to watch.
The Rest of the League is Feeling the Heat
The Hurricanes, the defending champs, are already shutting people up. I had concerns about their offense without Seth Jarvis, and what do they do? Score 20 goals in four games and reel off six consecutive wins. Made me look stupid, naturally. The Avalanche are still a machine, even with Mackenzie Blackwood struggling a bit in goal, rocking a 4-2-0 record despite him allowing 2.33 goals above average. Tomas Hertl with the Golden Knights is looking like he’s returning to 30-goal form, already with four goals in eight games after a dip last season. And Brandon Hagel for the Lightning? Still one of the most underrated players in the league, crushing it with eight points in six games and dominant underlying numbers. Logan Cooley over in Mammoth-land might not have a goal yet, but he’s already dished out six assists, doing what he does best.
Speaking of early season wins, our boys in blue just nabbed a 3-2 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers! It’s early days, but that’s the kind of momentum you want to see building. Keep that rolling, Kraken!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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