Oilers' Ekholm & Bouchard Make NHL History with Back-to-Back Hat Tricks

Defensemen's goal-scoring feats highlight Oilers' resilience and depth in win over Ducks

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:43pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and actions of a hockey game, with the players and puck deconstructed into abstract shapes and angles, creating a visually striking and conceptual representation of the historic achievement.The Oilers' historic back-to-back hat tricks by defensemen Ekholm and Bouchard showcase the team's offensive firepower and resilience in a hard-fought victory over the Ducks.Anaheim Today

The Edmonton Oilers made history as defensemen Mattias Ekholm and Evan Bouchard recorded back-to-back hat tricks, the first time this has happened in the NHL. While Ekholm's goal-scoring prowess was unexpected, his three goals showcased his versatility and helped the Oilers secure a 7-4 victory over the Anaheim Ducks, snapping their seven-game winning streak.

Why it matters

This achievement is significant as it marks the first time in NHL history that defensemen have recorded hat tricks in consecutive games. It highlights the Oilers' offensive depth and resilience, as they were able to overcome the Ducks' recent success. However, the Oilers' defensive play will be crucial as they look to build on this momentum and continue improving.

The details

Ekholm's hat trick included a behind-the-back pass and a 2-on-1 play, showcasing his versatility. While he had gone 20 games without scoring, his three goals played a pivotal role in the Oilers' victory. Bouchard's hat trick in the previous game also contributed to the team's success. The Ducks' head coach Joel Quenneville acknowledged the need for his team to improve, as their seven-game winning streak was snapped.

  • Ekholm recorded his hat trick on Monday, April 11, 2026.
  • Bouchard recorded his hat trick in the previous game.

The players

Mattias Ekholm

An Edmonton Oilers defenseman who recorded a hat trick in the team's 7-4 victory over the Anaheim Ducks, marking the first time a defenseman has achieved this feat in consecutive games in NHL history.

Evan Bouchard

An Edmonton Oilers defenseman who recorded a hat trick in the game prior to the Oilers' victory over the Anaheim Ducks, contributing to the team's offensive depth.

Joel Quenneville

The head coach of the Anaheim Ducks, who acknowledged the need for his team to improve after their seven-game winning streak was snapped.

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What they’re saying

“The Ducks' seven-game winning streak was snapped, and head coach Joel Quenneville acknowledged the team's need to improve.”

— Joel Quenneville, Anaheim Ducks Head Coach

What’s next

The Oilers will look to build on this momentum and continue improving their defensive play as they aim to maintain their success in the upcoming games.

The takeaway

This historic achievement by the Oilers' defensemen highlights the team's offensive depth and resilience, but their defensive performance will be crucial as they look to sustain their success in the remainder of the season.