In a commanding performance on home ice, the Edmonton Oilers delivered a decisive 5-1 victory over their provincial rivals, the Calgary Flames, on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. The win was fueled by a spectacular offensive showcase from star forward Leon Draisaitl.
Draisaitl Dominates with Three-Goal Performance
The story of the night was unequivocally Leon Draisaitl, who netted a hat trick to lead the Oilers' charge. The German center showcased his elite scoring touch, finding the back of the net three times against the Flames' defense. His performance was a masterclass in finishing and proved to be the primary catalyst for Edmonton's offensive outburst.
While Draisaitl stole the spotlight, he was not alone on the scoresheet. The Oilers' supporting cast contributed to the lopsided score, with Zach Hyman also tallying a goal. The marker was celebrated on the ice by captain Connor McDavid, as captured in a photograph by The Canadian Press's Amber Bracken. The Oilers' fifth goal rounded out a complete team effort that overwhelmed their opponents from Southern Alberta.
A One-Sided Battle of Alberta
The contest, a latest chapter in the fierce Battle of Alberta rivalry, was surprisingly one-sided. The Flames managed to solve Oilers goaltending only once, their lone goal doing little to shift the momentum of the game. Edmonton controlled the pace and flow from the early stages, capitalizing on their chances while stifling Calgary's attack.
The victory provides a significant boost for the Oilers in the Pacific Division standings and serves as a statement win against a key divisional foe. For the Flames, the loss raises questions as they head into the holiday break, having been thoroughly outplayed in a crucial matchup.
Looking Ahead After the Holiday Break
With the game concluded on December 23, both teams now head into the Christmas holiday. The resounding nature of this result will give the Oilers positive momentum to carry forward, while the Flames will be looking to regroup and address the defensive lapses that led to the defeat. The next meeting between these two clubs is sure to carry an added layer of intensity as Calgary seeks redemption.
The final score of 5-1 accurately reflects Edmonton's dominance on the night. The combination of star power from Draisaitl and contributions from throughout the lineup proved to be a formula for success, delivering an early Christmas gift to Oilers fans and a decisive win in one of hockey's most storied rivalries.