The October 28, 2025 matchup between the Utah Mammoth and the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place is one of the most intriguing early-season games on the NHL schedule, pairing a surging expansion team that’s quickly silencing skeptics against one of the league’s most star-studded franchises still searching for consistency. The Utah Mammoth, off to an 8–2–0 start, have shocked the hockey world with their poise, structure, and scoring depth in their inaugural season. Their success has been rooted in balance—an up-tempo offensive approach complemented by disciplined defensive play that defies the traditional learning curve of expansion franchises. Utah’s offense has averaged just under four goals per game, ranking among the NHL’s top five, while their special teams have been a surprising strength, with a power play operating near 24% and a penalty kill above 82%. Head coach D.J. Smith, brought in for his experience building competitive young teams, has instilled an identity built around relentless forechecking and quick puck movement. The team’s forward group has been led by the combination of dynamic winger Alex Newhook, veteran center Chandler Stephenson, and young sniper Connor Zary, all of whom have found chemistry on the top line. Depth scoring has been another key factor—players like Jakob Pelletier and Eeli Tolvanen have chipped in crucial goals, while the third line has served as an effective shutdown unit capable of flipping possession. Defensively, Utah has relied on structured play rather than star power. Their blue line, anchored by veteran Chris Tanev and mobile young defenseman Sean Durzi, has focused on minimizing turnovers and supporting goaltenders Kaapo Kähkönen and Logan Thompson, who have combined for a solid .914 save percentage. While they’ve benefited from early momentum, the Mammoth now face their biggest challenge yet: containing the Oilers’ elite offensive duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

Edmonton enters the contest at 4–4–2, a middling record for a team with championship aspirations. Despite scoring 29 goals, they’ve allowed 32, exposing defensive inconsistencies that have plagued them in recent seasons. The Oilers’ power play remains lethal, converting around 26% of its chances, but their five-on-five play has been uneven, with lapses in defensive zone coverage and reliance on their top line to carry the load. McDavid continues to be his usual dominant self, leading the team in points, while Draisaitl’s finishing ability remains among the best in the league. However, Edmonton’s secondary scoring—particularly from players like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Evander Kane, and Warren Foegele—has not delivered the consistency needed to support their superstars. Defensively, the Oilers’ blue line has been under scrutiny, with Darnell Nurse and Evan Bouchard logging heavy minutes but struggling to contain faster opponents in transition. Goaltending has also been shaky at times; starter Stuart Skinner holds a save percentage just over .900, and his rebound control has been an issue in several key games. Against a quick, opportunistic Utah team, Edmonton will need to play a more complete defensive game and limit odd-man rushes. Strategically, this matchup features a fascinating contrast: Utah’s youthful, aggressive energy versus Edmonton’s high-end individual brilliance. If the Mammoth can control the pace and win the battle in the neutral zone, they could frustrate the Oilers and turn the crowd’s energy against the home team. Conversely, if Edmonton’s stars find early chemistry and the power play clicks, the Oilers’ talent advantage could overwhelm Utah’s inexperienced defense. From a betting perspective, Edmonton is likely to be favored around -170 due to home ice and pedigree, but Utah’s strong ATS record and offensive form make them a tempting underdog. Expect an up-tempo game with plenty of scoring chances, momentum swings, and special teams influence. The Oilers may have the edge on paper, but the Mammoth’s mix of speed, structure, and confidence gives them every chance to continue their Cinderella start with another statement performance against one of the NHL’s elite.