McDavid’s 23-point start draws comparison with Lemieux

Connor McDavid has begun the 2026-27 season with six goals and 17 assists in eight games. The 23-point total puts his opening stretch alongside some of the most productive starts in NHL history.

Speaking after practice Monday, McDavid said he was judging his start by Edmonton’s overall play rather than his personal totals. He said there were still stretches when he and the team could contribute more, while crediting the group’s attention to detail and structure.

McDavid also said he had enjoyed an extended run alongside Leon Draisaitl and Vasily Podkolzin. He contrasted the current stretch with earlier seasons, when playing beside Draisaitl often served as a short-term way to find a goal.

Mario Lemieux reached 31 points in his first eight appearances of 1988-89 and 27 in each of 1992-93 and 1995-96.

McDavid’s 17 assists match Lemieux’s total through eight appearances in 1995-96 and Wayne Gretzky’s in 1986-87, a share of the NHL record, according to NHL.com.

McDavid reached his current total with two goals and three assists in Edmonton’s 6-2 win at Utah on Saturday, Oct. 17. He has recorded a point in every game this season and has had two five-point games.

His production has helped Edmonton begin the season 6-1-1. The Oilers return home for a five-game homestand.