Edmonton Oilers Lead 4-1 After Kreider’s Hit on Draisaitl

The Edmonton Oilers led 4-1 against the Anaheim Ducks in Game 5 of the 2026 NHL Western Conference First Round series.

This significant moment occurred with 2:40 left in the second period when Chris Kreider delivered a heavy hit on Leon Draisaitl.

Kreider’s hit sent Draisaitl hard into the boards, prompting immediate outrage online, especially since officials did not call a penalty.

Fans reacted strongly, with Oilers Nation sharing the clip on X, labeling it a “ruthless hit.” One fan stated, “What a piece of actual (expletive). That deserves fkn hearing.”

Another fan commented, “That hit could take an elite player out for the season or worse. Refs are horrible. Don’t care who it is. Do better.”

Concerns over the officiating were echoed as one fan noted, “That’s blatantly a hit from behind. You have to call that, or it’s going to get real chippy in this series.”

Frustrations continued, with another fan saying, “Can see the puck cross the line by a mm, but can’t see boarding right in front of their f’n faces. Clown show officiating.”

Another fan suggested the Oilers should retaliate, stating, “Edmonton has to put an end to this by taking some very healthy runs at Carlson, Terry Gauthier, and Sennecke.”

Despite the hit, Draisaitl remained in the game, contributing significantly to the Oilers’ performance, finishing with two goals.

Edmonton established their 4-1 lead with goals from Vasily Podkolzin, Zach Hyman, and Draisaitl in the first period.

Draisaitl’s second goal was a power-play score assisted by Connor McDavid and Evan Bouchard.

The Oilers entered Game 5 trailing 3-1 in the series after facing defensive lapses and penalties in previous games.

As the game progressed, Draisaitl’s performance continued to drive the Oilers’ top line.

With the win, the Oilers aimed to shift momentum in the series following a tough start.

Next, the Oilers are set to face the Ducks again as they look to even the series.