The Edmonton Oilers delivered a commanding performance for the majority of the game, ultimately securing a 4-1 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center on January 12, 2026. While the final score suggests a comfortable win, the game's narrative was one of two distinct halves: forty minutes of Oilers dominance followed by a tense final frame.
A Tale of Two Halves: Oilers Control Then Cling
From the opening puck drop, the Oilers established control. They outshot the young Blackhawks 10-5 in the first period, testing the Chicago netminder with 19 shot attempts but managing to convert only one. The second period followed a similar script, with Edmonton extending their lead to 2-0 despite a few self-inflicted turnovers.
The dynamic shifted in the third period. The Oilers appeared to ease their pressure, allowing Chicago to claw back within a single goal. However, an empty-net marker and a late insurance goal sealed the deal for Edmonton, resulting in a 4-1 final that felt closer than the overall play dictated.
Player Grades: Standout Performances Lead the Way
Connor Ingram was the undisputed first star, turning in his best performance since joining the Oilers. The goaltender was sharp from the start, making urgent saves early and bailing out his defense on several occasions. He stopped 29 of 30 shots, with his shutout bid broken only by a late rebound in a scramble. His grade: a stellar 9.
Captain Connor McDavid continued his offensive tear, earning the game's third star. He assisted on the first goal with a brilliant pass to Evan Bouchard, extending his personal point streak to an impressive 19 games. He added a secondary assist later and finished the night with a +3 rating, earning a grade of 7.
Defenseman Evan Bouchard was a force on the blue line and was named the game's second star. He made a key play on the first goal, beating defenders before a shot-pass was deflected in by Zach Hyman. Bouchard was also instrumental in the second goal and iced the game with a long-range empty-netter, also receiving a top grade of 9.
Other Key Contributors
Zach Hyman opened the scoring with a perfect deflection off a Bouchard shot-pass. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins was solid, contributing on the penalty kill and ringing a shot off the post. While the team earned the victory, the consensus was clear: there is still plenty to clean up despite the two points in the standings.
