On Monday, November 10, 2025, former NHL defenseman P.K. Subban gave a strong reality check to the Edmonton Oilers after their 5–4 overtime win against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Rogers Place in Edmonton. While the victory snapped the team’s three-game losing streak, Subban was far from impressed. Watching from home, he said the Oilers looked flat and lifeless, even as Connor McDavid put on another masterclass. McDavid scored twice in the third period to lead a comeback, but Subban’s message was clear that the Oilers can’t keep relying on one man.
P.K. Subban slams Edmonton Oilers for low energy despite Connor McDavid’s performance
After the win, P.K. Subban posted a fiery video on his official X (Twitter) account, saying the Oilers played with no energy or passion. “Edmonton Oilers are god awful,” Subban said.
“Terrible. They got no pulse, but the captain showed up to play.” He praised Connor McDavid for showing fight and called out the rest of the team for being “passengers.”
Subban broke down McDavid’s second goal of the night, explaining how the Oilers captain took charge when his teammates seemed disconnected. “Watch him here,” Subban said. “He’s scanning, scanning, then boom, he takes over. Look at this move. Nasty.”
Entering the third period behind 3–1, the Oilers forced overtime with two late goals by Connor McDavid.
Forward Jack Roslovic scored the game-winner only 56 seconds into extra time, therefore helping Edmonton break its losing streak. But Subban cautioned that the Oilers’ overreliance on McDavid and Leon Draisaitl might undermine them as the season progresses.
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Kris Knoblauch praises Connor McDavid’s leadership after Subban’s “wake-up” message
Head coach Kris Knoblauch responded to the win by praising Connor McDavid’s leadership. “Connor wasn’t going to let us lose tonight,” Knoblauch said in his postgame interview. “He was so focused on getting the job done. He just willed the team to win.”
After the much-needed victory, the Oilers went to 7–6–4 on the season. While the team concluded with 24 shots, 27 blocks, and 23 hits, goalie Stuart Skinner made 15 saves.
Still, P.K. Subban’s message resonated throughout the NHL: the Oilers cannot count on Connor McDavid to save them every night. If Edmonton wants to remain in the playoff race, other players have to step up and match his intensity.
