JUST IN: Flames vs. Oilers Preseason Showdown Ignites Rivalry on September 21 – Box Score Drama Unfolds in Fiery Alberta Clash

The Battle of Alberta is alive and well, even in the preseason. On September 21, 2025, the Calgary Flames and Edmonton Oilers reignited their fierce rivalry with a heated contest that was anything but a meaningless exhibition. Played in front of a packed crowd hungry for hockey’s return, this early glimpse into the new season provided fans, analysts, and coaches with plenty to chew on. From standout performances to gritty scrums, this box score wasn’t just numbers on a page—it told a story of two teams gearing up for war in the upcoming NHL campaign.

Although the final result may be etched in stat sheets, the tone and intensity of this game went far beyond what most expect from preseason hockey. Right from puck drop, both squads came out with energy that screamed regular-season form. Edmonton, fresh off a summer filled with speculation and high expectations, wanted to prove its depth and cohesion. Calgary, with its eyes set on redemption after a disappointing 2024-25 season, brought a physical edge and a no-nonsense approach that left a clear message: they won’t be pushed around this year.

The box score reveals a lot more than goals and assists—it highlights emerging talent, returning veterans finding their rhythm, and coaching strategies slowly being revealed. Edmonton’s top line started strong, peppering shots early and gaining control of possession in the opening frame. Connor McDavid, though only playing limited minutes, looked as sharp as ever. His crisp passing and zone entries created multiple chances, and while he didn’t light the lamp, his presence was undeniable. On the other side, Calgary’s goaltender Jacob Markström showed midseason form, stopping a flurry of Grade-A chances in the first period to keep things knotted.

The first goal of the game came late in the first, as Flames forward Andrew Mangiapane found the back of the net off a rebound, capitalizing on defensive confusion in front of Oilers netminder Stuart Skinner. That early marker gave Calgary the momentum heading into the second period, and it showed in their forecheck. The Flames pressured the Oilers relentlessly, forcing turnovers and drawing penalties. The box score logged Calgary with three power-play opportunities by the midway point of the second, one of which was converted by defenseman Rasmus Andersson with a laser from the point.

Down 2-0, Edmonton responded with some fire of their own. Rookie forward Xavier Bourgault, looking to secure a roster spot this season, tallied a gritty goal midway through the second period, crashing the net and stuffing the puck past Markström. That moment seemed to flip a switch for the Oilers, who started to tilt the ice in their favor. The shots began to pile up, and Calgary was suddenly on its heels. But credit to the Flames’ penalty kill unit, which stood tall during a late second-period penalty to Chris Tanev.

Heading into the third period, the box score showed Calgary leading 2-1, but the real battle was just beginning. As expected from these two rivals, the physical play escalated. Scrums after the whistle, heavy hits in the corners, and even a spirited bout between Oilers’ Evander Kane and Flames’ Nikita Zadorov added spice to what was supposed to be a quiet preseason game. Both benches were fully engaged, and the coaching staff treated line changes and matchups as if the playoffs were on the line. It was clear neither side wanted to lose—not to their provincial rival, not in front of their fans, and certainly not with roster spots and reputations on the line.

The turning point came six minutes into the third, when Edmonton’s Leon Draisaitl reminded everyone why he’s among the NHL’s elite. Taking a pass off the boards, Draisaitl danced around a Flames defender before wiring a shot top shelf to even the score at two. The goal was classic Draisaitl—precision, patience, and lethal execution. It gave the Oilers a surge of confidence, and for the next several minutes, they hemmed the Flames into their own zone.

However, just as the Oilers appeared to seize control, a costly penalty put them back on the defensive. A tripping call on defenseman Brett Kulak gave Calgary its fourth power play of the game. This time, Edmonton’s penalty kill rose to the occasion, with key clears by Mattias Ekholm and solid saves by Skinner preserving the tie. That kill injected even more energy into the game, setting the stage for a wild final five minutes.

With both teams pushing for a late winner, chances came fast and furious. Edmonton’s Ryan Nugent-Hopkins rang a shot off the post with under three minutes remaining, and Calgary’s Jonathan Huberdeau was stoned on a partial breakaway seconds later. The tension inside the building was palpable, and while the game meant little in the standings, it meant everything in pride and tone-setting.

Ultimately, the game went to overtime, and the extra frame showcased the speed and skill these teams are known for. It didn’t take long for fireworks to erupt. Just 1:14 into OT, a slick give-and-go between McDavid and Draisaitl opened up space down the middle. McDavid drew in the defense and fed a no-look pass to Draisaitl, who buried the winner glove side, sending Oilers fans into a frenzy. The final box score read: Oilers 3, Flames 2 (OT), but the game itself told a much deeper tale of intensity, preparation, and statement-making.

Coaches on both sides had plenty to analyze. For Edmonton’s Kris Knoblauch, the effort from younger players like Bourgault, Dylan Holloway, and Philip Broberg was a positive sign. Broberg logged over 20 minutes of ice time and was steady defensively, while Holloway’s speed and forechecking created havoc throughout the game. Knoblauch emphasized postgame that while the stars carried the scoring load, the kids are pushing hard, and that’s exactly the kind of internal competition the Oilers need.

Meanwhile, Flames coach Ryan Huska praised his team’s early energy and structure but acknowledged the need for better discipline in the third. The Flames’ inability to maintain their lead and take control when the game was there for the taking will likely be a teaching point during film review. That said, players like Connor Zary and Martin Pospisil made their cases with strong performances in limited roles.

The box score, full of hits, shots, blocked attempts, and special teams data, will be dissected thoroughly over the coming days. Beyond the numbers, this game will be remembered as a spark in the buildup to what could be an explosive 2025-26 regular season in the Pacific Division. Both Calgary and Edmonton are in transition in their own ways, but if this game is any indication, neither is backing down. The rivalry is not just alive—it’s thriving.

In terms of fan reaction, social media lit up during and after the game. Clips of the McDavid-to-Draisaitl overtime winner trended across platforms, and debates raged over the hit Zadorov laid on Holloway in the second, which many deemed borderline. The Flames faithful were encouraged by their team’s pushback and early chemistry, while Oilers supporters are buzzing with optimism that this could be the year the team finally puts it all together.

Ultimately, this game wasn’t about two points. It was about identity, hunger, and early momentum. The Flames showed they’re ready to be a problem again. The Oilers showed they’re focused, fast, and frightening when they hit full gear. And the fans? They got a preview of what might be one of the fiercest season-long rivalries the NHL has to offer. If this is what September brings, imagine what December—or the playoffs—might look like.