It’s finally here! If it feels like forever since we last watched meaningful Edmonton Oilers hockey, that’s because it has been – 152 days, to be exact.

The Oilers will be looking to start the season with a win, something they haven’t done since 2022-23, when they beat the same Vancouver Canucks they face to begin the 2026-27 campaign. Beyond the obvious of watching for a highlight-reel goal, sparkling goaltending performance, or other crazy moment during the game, what else will Oilers fans be watching for on Tuesday night?

What can fans expect from Tristan Jarry and the Oilers’ goaltending?

Goaltending remains one of the most talked-about topics in Edmonton. With Frederik Andersen injured, the net will be split between Tristan Jarry and Devon Levi to begin the season. Jarry will get the net in the opener and is coming off a very strong preseason. He made three appearances, finishing with a .952 save percentage (SV%) and a 1.24 goals-against average (GAA). Levi wasn’t far behind, posting a .946 SV% and 1.20 GAA, including a great outing against the Flames on Saturday night

Oilers fans will be watching for a massive improvement from Jarry’s 2025-26 campaign. This will look like quiet and controlled movements in the crease rather than over-sliding and scrambling. Rebound control will also be key for Jarry – when he is on, rebounds are either sent to the corner or are non-existent. He is also an active puck-playing goaltender – the more he is out of the net, breaking up dump-ins, and helping his defencemen with the breakout, the more comfortable he is.

Conversely, what if Jarry struggles? He’ll have a team that’s still learning new systems in front of him, and that could result in some breakdowns. If Jarry lets in a soft goal or his performance isn’t up to par, how quickly will the coaching staff........

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