NHL News: HC Kris Knoblauch gets real on Connor McDavid’s four-assist hight and Oilers’ playoff berth

Connor McDavid delivered another masterclass performance on Friday night, orchestrating the Edmonton Oilers’ offense with four crucial assists in a 4–2 victory over the San Jose Sharks. The win not only extended San Jose’s losing streak to eight games, but also officially clinched a Stanley Cup Playoff berth for the Oilers — a significant milestone in their 2024–25 campaign.

The return of McDavid to Edmonton’s lineup following a brief injury absence has been both immediate and impactful. In just two games since rejoining the team, the Oilers captain has tallied an impressive seven assists, showcasing his unmatched ability to create scoring opportunities and elevate those around him.

Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch was full of praise for his superstar following the win. “Remarkable coming back and playing at the level he has… He’s been a big boost to our team — that’s an understatement,” Knoblauch told reporters after the game, highlighting McDavid’s profound influence on the Oilers’ recent surge.

Supporting cast shines alongside McDavid

In addition to McDavid’s standout performance, several other Oilers players made key contributions. Evan Bouchard recorded a goal and an assist, while Adam Henrique added two assists of his own. Goaltender Calvin Pickard stood tall between the pipes, making 23 saves to secure the win.

With the result, the Oilers improved to 46–28–5, holding firm in third place in the Pacific Division — just two points behind the Los Angeles Kings — as the battle for playoff seeding intensifies in the final stretch.

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Knoblauch reflects on season’s challenges

Coach Knoblauch also took a broader view of the season, acknowledging the physical and mental toll of an NHL campaign — particularly for a team that reached Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final last year.

“The NHL schedule is a grind, especially after the season we had last year, going so late. There’s disappointment, and there’s a lot on guys’ minds thinking, ‘We’re going to do this again,’” Knoblauch said. “But we’re not doing it for several more months. You still have to play 82 games, and we’ve done a pretty good job of battling through that mental fatigue.”

As the playoffs approach, Knoblauch emphasized the increasing stakes and urgency with each game. “As you get closer to playoff time, in the last few weeks, you’re thinking about who you might be playing, and the importance of winning games to get in,” he added. “It’s unfortunate, losing so many guys to injury, but this is an exciting time.”