If you're frantically clicking your remote wondering what channel is the Oilers game on tonight, I have some news that might make you want to put the jersey back in the closet for just a few hours.
There actually isn't an Edmonton Oilers game tonight, Friday, January 16, 2026.
The guys are currently resetting after a frustrating 1-0 shutout loss to the New York Islanders just last night at Rogers Place. Ilya Sorokin basically turned into a brick wall, stopping 35 shots and snapping Connor McDavid’s 20-game point streak. It was one of those games where you do everything right but the puck just won't find the mesh.
But don't go too far. The Battle of Western Canada is right around the corner.
When Do the Oilers Play Next?
You won't have to wait long. The Oilers are traveling to British Columbia to face off against the Vancouver Canucks tomorrow, Saturday, January 17, 2026.
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This is a massive divisional matchup. Vancouver has been struggling lately—dropping six straight at home—while Edmonton is sitting at 23-17-8 and looking to claw back into the win column.
Saturday Night Details
- Matchup: Edmonton Oilers at Vancouver Canucks
- Puck Drop: 8:00 PM MT (10:00 PM ET)
- Location: Rogers Arena, Vancouver, BC
What Channel Is the Oilers Game on (January 17)?
Since it's a Saturday night in Canada, you already know the drill. It’s Hockey Night in Canada.
If you are in Canada, the game will be broadcast nationally on CBC, Sportsnet, and Citytv. It’s basically everywhere. For the French-language broadcast, you’ll want to tune into TVA Sports.
Now, if you’re south of the border in the United States, your best bet is ESPN+. It’s being carried as an out-of-market game there. Occasionally, these big matchups get flexed to TNT or ABC, but for now, keep your ESPN+ subscription active.
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Streaming Options
- Canada: Sportsnet+ (the premium tier gets you everything), CBC Gem (often free for HNIC games), and the Sportsnet app.
- USA: ESPN+ and Hulu.
- International: NHL.tv is still the go-to for most fans outside of North America.
Why the Schedule Matters Right Now
Honestly, the Oilers are in a weird spot. They’ve been playing decent hockey, but they’ve had trouble finishing. That 1-0 loss to the Isles was a prime example. They outshot New York 35-18. They dominated five-on-five. But a late tripping penalty by Leon Draisaitl gave the Islanders the opening they needed, and Anthony Duclair didn't miss.
Losing McDavid’s point streak is a bummer for the record books, but the team cares more about the two points they let slip away.
Upcoming Schedule (January 2026)
- Jan 18 vs. St. Louis Blues: Back home at Rogers Place. Catch it on Sportsnet West.
- Jan 20 vs. New Jersey Devils: This one is a big national TV night. It’s on TNT and HBO Max in the States, and Sportsnet West in Canada.
- Jan 22 vs. Pittsburgh Penguins: Sid vs. Connor. Always a classic. Check Sportsnet for this one.
Watching Without Cable
If you’ve cut the cord, you’re probably used to the "blackout" dance. It’s annoying. I get it.
In Alberta, Sportsnet+ is your primary home. If you just want the Oilers and don't care about the rest of the league, the standard package usually covers the regional games. However, if you're an Oilers fan living in Toronto or Halifax, you’ll need the Premium version to bypass those regional restrictions.
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In the US, Fubo and Sling TV are solid choices because they carry the national networks like TNT and ESPN, but ESPN+ is the real MVP for out-of-market fans. It carries almost every game that isn't a national exclusive.
Actionable Steps for Fans
Don't get caught 10 minutes after puck drop trying to find the right login. Here is what you should do:
- Check your region: If you're in the Oilers' "home" region (Alberta, Sask, NWT, Nunavut), Sportsnet West is your home base for most games.
- Download the CBC Gem app: Since tomorrow is Saturday, you can often stream the game for free legally within Canada.
- Sync your calendar: Use an app like Stanza or the official NHL app to sync the Oilers schedule to your phone. It updates the TV channels automatically based on your location.
- Prep for the Canucks game: Keep an eye on the injury report. The Canucks are on a skid, which makes them dangerous and desperate.
The Oilers are currently 5th in the Western Conference. Every game against a Pacific Division rival like Vancouver is essentially a "four-pointer."
Grab your snacks, double-check your Sportsnet login tonight, and get ready for Saturday night. It's going to be a loud one at Rogers Arena.