“We need to start stacking games together,” said Jack Roslovic after the Edmonton Oilers’ 4-2 victory over the Utah Mammoth on March 24, 2026, in Edmonton, Alberta. Roslovic’s sentiment reflects the Oilers’ desire to build momentum as they approach the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The game showcased a strong performance by Connor McDavid, who scored twice, further solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s elite players. Jack Roslovic also contributed significantly, netting two goals, including the equalizer that tied the game at 1-1 after the Mammoth initially took the lead.
In the first period, Alex Kerfoot gave the Mammoth a 1-0 advantage, but the Oilers quickly responded. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins recorded his 800th NHL point with an assist on Roslovic’s goal, marking a significant milestone in his career. The Oilers’ offensive depth was evident, with Evan Bouchard providing three assists throughout the game.
Defensively, the Oilers were supported by goaltender Tristan Jarry, who made 16 saves, helping to secure the win. The Mammoth’s Karel Vejmelka struggled, allowing four goals on just 15 shots before being replaced by Vitek Vanecek, who made 10 saves in relief.
The victory places the Edmonton Oilers second in the Pacific Division, just one point behind the Anaheim Ducks. Meanwhile, the Utah Mammoth, despite the loss, currently holds the first wild card spot in the Western Conference, but their recent form has been concerning, with a record of 3-4-2 in their last nine games.
“We did a lot of good stuff defensively, but I think we didn’t have our usual aggression and our pace,” commented Mammoth coach Andre Tourigny, highlighting the need for improvement as they head into the final stretch of the season.
What observers say
As the Oilers look to solidify their playoff position, Kris Knoblauch noted, “It’s a playoff-hockey type game that we just played,” emphasizing the intensity and importance of the matchup. The Oilers’ ability to perform under pressure will be crucial as they aim for a deep playoff run.
Connor McDavid has consistently demonstrated his scoring prowess, having scored at least 30 goals in nine of his 11 NHL seasons, including five seasons with 40 or more goals. His performance in this game adds to his impressive legacy as one of the league’s top players.
