Full Breakdown
Flames and Oilers Split Preseason Matchups in Battle of Alberta
9/23/2025, 11:26:15 AM
Overview of the Split-Squad Games
The Calgary Flames and Edmonton Oilers commenced their 2025 NHL preseason with a split-squad series on September 22, 2025. The Flames secured a 3-2 overtime victory at Rogers Place in Edmonton, while the Oilers responded with a 3-0 shutout at Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary. Both games featured a mix of established players and prospects, as key stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl did not participate.
Game Summaries
In the first matchup at Rogers Place, the Flames overcame an early deficit after Darnell Nurse opened the scoring for the Oilers. Morgan Frost netted two goals, including the decisive overtime goal just 1:07 into the extra period. Joel Farabee also contributed a power-play goal, while Matvey Petrov scored for Edmonton, which outshot Calgary 30-14. Flames goaltender Ivan Prosvetov made 28 saves, showcasing his potential as a backup to starter Dustin Wolf.
Conversely, the Oilers dominated the second game in Calgary, with goals from Kasperi Kapanen, Connor Clattenburg, and Riley Stillman leading to a 3-0 victory. Edmonton's rookie goaltenders, Nathaniel Day and Samuel Jonsson, combined for a 20-save shutout, demonstrating composure in their first NHL preseason appearances.
Key Player Performances
Morgan Frost emerged as a standout for the Flames, scoring twice in the overtime win. His performance was critical in securing the Flames' victory, despite the team being heavily outshot. For the Oilers, Clattenburg's contributions included a goal and a fight, highlighting his physical play and potential impact on the roster.
Matvey Petrov also made a notable impression, scoring a goal and assisting in the first game, while rookie goaltenders Day and Jonsson effectively managed the net in the shutout victory.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the split results, the Flames faced criticism for their lack of offensive production in the shutout loss. They managed only 20 shots on goal, with a significant drop in offensive pressure during the third period. Goaltender Devin Cooley's performance was also scrutinized, as he allowed three goals on 29 shots, raising questions about the backup goaltending situation behind Wolf.
Official Statements & Responses
Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch praised his team's effort, stating, "The preseason is when you're trying to get the guys to work hard and skate and play with a lot of pace." He acknowledged the mixed results but emphasized the importance of evaluating younger players. Flames head coach Ryan Huska noted the opportunity for younger players to showcase their skills, particularly highlighting Matvei Gridin and Zayne Parekh's performances.
What's Next for Both Teams
The Flames will look to improve their offensive output in their next preseason game against the Seattle Kraken on September 24, 2025. Meanwhile, the Oilers will continue their preseason schedule with a matchup against the Winnipeg Jets on the same day, aiming to build on their early successes and further evaluate their roster options.
