This fall, the Oilers played centres Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl an average of 22 minutes per game from October through December. It was a slight increase in usage compared to the same period in the previous season. That’s a lot of hockey, which brings worry over fatigue and lower performance levels as the team chugs toward the postseason.

Connor Brown's goal in overtime gives the Oilers a 3-2 win over the Blues.