Oilers vs Islanders

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New York Islanders 4, Edmonton Oilers 2 – October 16, 2025

In a thrilling matchup at UBS Arena, the New York Islanders stopped their season-opening 0-3-0 skid with a 4-2 victory over the visiting Edmonton Oilers, who fell to 2-1-1. The game was highlighted by Bo Horvat's electrifying hat trick, which powered the Islanders to their first win of the 2025-26 season and handed the Oilers their first regulation loss.

Scoring Summary

• 1st Period: Bo Horvat (1) opened the scoring, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Edmonton to give New York an early 1-0 lead.
• 2nd Period: Horvat (2) struck again, this time on a power play, extending the Islanders' lead to 2-0. Edmonton answered back with a goal from Leon Draisaitl, narrowing the gap to 2-1.
• 3rd Period: Horvat (3) completed his hat trick early in the third, restoring the two-goal cushion at 3-1. The Oilers responded with a goal from Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, making it 3-2 with under five minutes left. An empty-net goal by Mathew Barzal sealed the 4-2 final for the Islanders.

Game FlowThe Islanders came out aggressive, with Horvat’s first goal setting the tone and rookie Matthew Schaefer logging heavy minutes on defense. Despite Edmonton’s potent offense, led by Connor McDavid and Draisaitl, New York’s David Rittich stood tall in his Islanders debut, making key saves. The second period saw New York’s power play click, with Horvat converting, though Edmonton’s Draisaitl kept it close. The third period was a back-and-forth affair, but Horvat’s third goal and Rittich’s clutch stops, including a highlight-reel save, preserved the lead. Barzal’s empty-netter capped a strong team effort.Three Stars

1. Bo Horvat (NYI): Hat trick (3 goals), including the game-winner, and a dominant offensive presence.
2. David Rittich (NYI): Stellar in net, stopping high-danger chances from McDavid and Draisaitl.
3. Leon Draisaitl (EDM): Scored Edmonton’s first goal, continuing his strong play against the Islanders.

Key Notes

• Horvat’s hat trick was a statement for the Islanders, who had struggled offensively (2.33 goals per game, 28th in NHL).
• Edmonton’s Stuart Skinner faced pressure but couldn’t replicate his shutout performance against the Rangers, allowing three goals.
• The Islanders’ penalty kill improved, holding Edmonton’s power play (22.2% entering) scoreless.
• New York’s 4-2 win aligns with the sports card above, confirming the final score.

The Oilers (2-1-1) continue their road trip, while the Islanders (1-3-0) look to build momentum at home. Horvat’s heroics and Rittich’s debut suggest New York could be turning a corner.