The NHL scoring race has officially turned into a clash of titans. As of this morning, December 19, 2025, Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon are deadlocked at 58 points apiece, reigniting the debate over who truly owns the league this season. McDavid’s two-point performance in the Oilers’ 3-1 victory over the Boston Bruins last night erased MacKinnon’s lead, setting the stage for a dramatic second half.
While Edmonton surges, the mood in Toronto is darkening. The Maple Leafs were blanked 4-0 by the Washington Capitals on Thursday, marking their fourth loss in six games. Head coach Craig Berube didn’t mince words post-game, calling out his team’s lack of “passion” and “urgency.” With the holiday roster freeze kicking in tonight at 11:59 PM ET, the pressure on GM Brad Treliving to make a move is mounting. Rumors are swirling around Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson, who notched three assists last night against Seattle, with reports suggesting Toronto has re-entered the chat for his services.
Elsewhere, the Minnesota Wild are the hottest team in hockey. They extended their winning streak to six games with a 5-2 drubbing of the Blue Jackets. Matt Boldy joined Kirill Kaprizov in the 20-goal club, making the Wild the only team with two 20-goal scorers this season.
Tonight, all eyes turn to Long Island as two Calder Trophy frontrunners collide. The Canucks’ recent acquisition Zeev Buium faces off against the Islanders’ No. 1 overall pick Matthew Schaefer.
NHL Scores & Notes: December 18, 2025
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