Oilers and Maple Leafs Face Off: Projected Lineups and Game Preview

Tonight, the Edmonton Oilers visit the Toronto Maple Leafs for a highly anticipated matchup. Both teams are looking to solidify their positions in their respective divisions, adding extra stakes to this December clash. Here's a look at the projected lineups and what to expect from the game.

Oilers' Projected Lineup

Based on the latest updates, here's how the Oilers are expected to line up:

• Forwards: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins – Connor McDavid – Zach Hyman; Vasily Podkolzin – Leon Draisaitl – Matthew Savoie; Trent Frederic – Adam Henrique – Mattias Janmark; Andrew Mangiapane – Curtis Lazar – David Tomasek.
• Defensemen: Mattias Ekholm – Evan Bouchard; Darnell Nurse – Alec Regula; Brett Kulak – Ty Emberson.
• Goalies: Calvin Pickard is likely to start in goal.

Oilers Injury and Roster News

The Oilers have been dealing with several injuries recently. Connor Clattenburg, Kasperi Kapanen, Noah Philp, Jack Roslovic, and Jake Walman are all currently sidelined. In a recent trade, the Oilers acquired Tristan Jarry and Samuel Poulin from the Penguins in exchange for Stuart Skinner, Brett Kulak, and a 2029 second-round pick. Additionally, Spencer Stastney was acquired from the Predators for a 2027 third-round pick. Jarry and Stastney are expected to make their Oilers debut.

Maple Leafs' Projected Lineup

Here's the projected lineup for the Maple Leafs:

• Forwards: Matthew Knies – Auston Matthews – Max Domi; Easton Cowan – John Tavares – William Nylander; Dakota Joshua – Nicolas Roy – Bobby McMann; Steven Lorentz – Scott Laughton – Calle Jarnkrok.
• Defensemen: Morgan Rielly – Oliver Ekman-Larsson; Jake McCabe – Troy Stecher; Simon Benoit – Henry Thrun.
• Goalies: Dennis Hildeby is the projected starting goalie.

Maple Leafs Injury and Roster News

The Maple Leafs have a number of players on the injury list. Chris Tanev, Anthony Stolarz, Brandon Carlo, Joseph Woll, and Dakota Mermis are all currently injured. William Nylander and Dakota Joshua are game-time decisions due to illness. Bobby McMann returns to the lineup after serving a one-game suspension. Oliver Ekman-Larsson is expected to play after suffering a lower-body injury in the previous game.

Keys to the Game

• Oilers' Offense: Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl will need to lead the charge offensively for the Oilers. Secondary scoring from players like Zach Hyman and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins will also be crucial.
• Maple Leafs' Offense: Auston Matthews will be the key player to watch for the Maple Leafs. If William Nylander is unable to play, others will need to step up to fill the void.
• Goaltending: With both teams potentially starting their backup goalies, the performance in net will be critical. Calvin Pickard and Dennis Hildeby will need to be sharp and make key saves.
• Special Teams: Both teams have strong power-play units, so staying out of the penalty box will be important. The penalty kill will also need to be effective.

Team Records and Standings

As of today, December 13, 2025, the Oilers have a record of 14-11-6. They are currently in fourth place in the Pacific Division. The Maple Leafs have a record of 14-11-5 and are fifth in the Atlantic Division.

Prediction

Given the injuries and illnesses affecting both teams, this game is difficult to predict. However, with Connor McDavid leading the charge, the Oilers may have a slight edge. Expect a close, high-scoring affair.