The Edmonton Oilers defeated the Winnipeg Jets 2-1 in overtime on Tuesday, September 22, extending Edmonton’s perfect start to the preseason after a second meeting between the Western Canadian clubs in four days.
The result came at Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, where the Oilers followed up their 5-2 victory over the Jets at Rogers Place on September 19. The two exhibition games form part of Edmonton’s four-game preseason schedule ahead of the 2026-27 regular season.
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Oilers remain unbeaten in preseason
Edmonton’s second win was considerably tighter than the opening game. The Jets held the Oilers to one goal through regulation before Edmonton found the difference in overtime.
Forward Josh Samanski and several young players were among the Oilers’ lineup for the road game, while the club continued evaluating players competing for NHL jobs. The preseason provides the first extended opportunity for new head coach Mike Babcock and his staff to assess line combinations, defensive pairings and the organization’s depth options.
Edmonton’s opening camp roster included 56 players, consisting of 31 forwards, 17 defencemen and eight goaltenders. The club is expected to reduce that group as the regular season approaches.
Goaltending remains a central storyline
The Oilers’ preseason schedule is also giving the organization a closer look at a revamped goaltending group. Devon Levi, acquired from the Buffalo Sabres during the off-season, made his preseason appearance against Winnipeg after being projected to start the game.
Levi is competing for a role alongside established options and younger goaltenders, with Edmonton entering camp carrying three potential NHL-level choices. The performances during the exhibition schedule will help determine how the club handles its crease before opening night.
The organization has also been monitoring Frederik Andersen, who was identified as one of the players whose status was being discussed by general manager Stan Bowman at the start of camp.
McDavid and Draisaitl prepare for new system
The Oilers are entering the season with Babcock behind the bench for the first time. The veteran coach has emphasized structure, attention to detail and defensive responsibility during his opening training camp.
Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are expected to begin the season together on Edmonton’s top line, although the coaching staff continues to determine the remaining combinations and how the rest of the forward group will be deployed.
That evaluation will continue in the final two preseason games, when Edmonton faces the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday, September 24, and the Calgary Flames at Rogers Place on Saturday, September 26.
When is the Oilers regular-season opener?
The Oilers will open the 2026-27 regular season against Vancouver on Tuesday, September 29, in Edmonton. The clubs will then meet again in Vancouver on Thursday, October 1, completing an opening home-and-away set.
Edmonton’s preseason results will not count toward the regular-season standings, but the remaining games are important for players trying to secure roster spots and for the coaching staff attempting to establish the team’s identity under Babcock.
For the Oilers, the 2-1 overtime win in Winnipeg offered another competitive test while keeping the club unbeaten with one week remaining before the regular season begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did the Oilers beat the Jets in preseason?
Yes. Edmonton defeated Winnipeg 2-1 in overtime on September 22, 2026.
How many preseason games have the Oilers won?
The Oilers opened their preseason with wins over Winnipeg on September 19 and September 22.
Who are the Oilers playing next in preseason?
Edmonton visits the Vancouver Canucks on September 24 before hosting the Calgary Flames on September 26.
When is the Oilers regular-season opener?
The Oilers open the 2026-27 regular season against the Vancouver Canucks on September 29 in Edmonton.
Who is coaching the Oilers in 2026-27?
Mike Babcock is entering his first training camp as Edmonton’s head coach.
Fact-Checked: Key game, schedule and training-camp details were checked against official Edmonton Oilers and NHL information, with the final score corroborated by available post-game reporting.
Disclaimer: This report covers a preseason game, so the result does not affect the Oilers’ regular-season standings.