Oilers' McDavid nets hat trick in win over Sharks

Edmonton extends division lead with 5-2 victory in San Jose

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:46am

An abstract, energetic painting in a vibrant expressionist style, with thick brushstrokes of neon-bright colors capturing the raw power and movement of a hockey player scoring a goal.Edmonton's Connor McDavid continues his MVP-caliber season with a dominant hat trick performance that extends the Oilers' division lead.San Jose Today

Edmonton Oilers star Connor McDavid scored three goals and had two assists to lead his team to a 5-2 win over the San Jose Sharks on Wednesday night. The victory extends the Oilers' lead atop their division standings.

Why it matters

McDavid's offensive outburst continues his strong season and helps the Oilers widen their lead in the division race. The Sharks, meanwhile, are struggling to keep pace in the competitive Pacific Division.

The details

McDavid scored two even-strength goals and added an empty-net tally in the third period to complete the hat trick. He also set up two other Oilers goals in the win. The Oilers jumped out to a 3-0 lead and held on despite a late push from the Sharks.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.

The players

Connor McDavid

The star center for the Edmonton Oilers, McDavid is one of the NHL's elite players and a perennial MVP candidate.

Edmonton Oilers

A professional ice hockey team based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, and a member of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League (NHL).

San Jose Sharks

A professional ice hockey team based in San Jose, California, and a member of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League (NHL).

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What they’re saying

“Connor was dominant tonight. When he's on his game like that, he's nearly impossible to stop.”

— Jay Woodcroft, Head Coach, Edmonton Oilers

What’s next

The Oilers will look to continue their strong play and widen their division lead when they host the Los Angeles Kings on Friday, April 11. The Sharks will try to bounce back when they visit the Anaheim Ducks on Saturday, April 12.

The takeaway

McDavid's hat trick performance was a reminder of his elite skill level and ability to take over games. The Oilers' win extends their lead atop the Pacific Division, while the Sharks continue to struggle to keep pace with their division rivals.