Season Preview – 4. Edmonton Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers began this season with high hopes, eager to claim the Stanley Cup they nearly captured last year in a heartbreaking Game 7 loss to the Florida Panthers. Projected to finish 4th in the league, the Oilers have gone all in during the offseason to construct a roster built for a serious Cup run. Yet in a season where every move matters, they also lost two of their promising young players, and still need to shore up their top-four defensive group to be legitimate contenders. However, optimism came in the form of Leon Draisaitl’s new eight-year, $112 million this offseason, showcasing more commitment to winning from the established core. The team also brought in Stan Bowman, former Chicago GM, whose hiring brings a fresh (and scrutinized) perspective. With a loaded forward lineup, but still needing defensive upgrades, the Oilers face a season of high stakes, where anything short of a Stanley Cup would be a disappointment.

Season Expectations

With last season’s deep playoff run and final loss still fresh, the Oilers come into this season with a mix of optimism and pressure. Edmonton has some of the league’s top offensive power with McDavid and Draisaitl leading the charge. This offseason, they built on that foundation by adding experienced players like Jeff Skinner and Viktor Arvidsson, whose versatility, scoring ability, and veteran presence could help Edmonton avoid the pitfalls of past years, where they leaned too heavily on their top players. The Oilers offense has the potential to rank among the league’s most formidable, capable of rolling multiple lines that can generate scoring opportunities in both regular play and special teams situations.

However, expectations stretch beyond the offense. The team’s defense has depth but lacks a solidified second pairing that can reliably shut down opposing lines and ease the load on their top defenders. This deficiency could be a stumbling block if it’s not addressed by midseason. Additionally, new GM Stan Bowman’s role introduces an interesting dynamic; after years with Ken Holland, the Oilers are now led by someone who is both experienced and, due to past controversies, under scrutiny. Bowman’s ability to guide the Oilers in making bold moves and key acquisitions at the right time will be crucial to the team’s performance, especially if he finds the necessary balance between staying competitive and meeting fan and media expectations. One thing is for sure, the Oilers are following last years motto: Cup or Bust.

Projected Lines

Under head coach Kris Knoblauch, the Oilers projected lines emphasize a high-tempo, aggressive forechecking system designed to maximize offensive opportunities while maintaining defensive structure. Knoblauch’s approach relies on speed through the neutral zone and crisp, efficient puck movement to maintain possession and create scoring chances. His system also encourages forwards to cycle effectively in the offensive zone, with defensemen actively joining the rush to support attacks from the blue line. Defensively, the emphasis is on layered support and quick zone exits, allowing for fast transitions that keep opponents on their heels. This balanced but fast paced system aims to utilize the Oilers depth, allowing each line to contribute offensively while reinforcing a disciplined, resilient structure in their own zone.

To clarify, these line projections are meant to only predict the start of the season. With so many potential combinations possible, its almost certain that there are tweaks and additions of new faces by the end of the year. Expect the season to start as such:

Zach Hyman – Connor McDavid – Ryan Nugent-Hopkins
Jeff Skinner – Leon Draisaital – Viktor Arvidsson
Mattias Janmark – Adam Henrique – Connor Brown
Vasily Podkolzin – Derek Ryan – Corey Perry

Mattias Ekholm – Evan Bouchard
Darnell Nurse – Troy Stecher
Brett Kulak – Ty Emberson

Stuart Skinner
Calvin Pickard

Scratches: Evander Kane*, Noah Philp, Travis Dermott

Line 1
This line was instrumental to the overall success of the Oilers last season. They maintained their momentum throughout the playoffs and were a significant reason why the Oilers almost hoisted the Cup. However, they are off to a slow start this season and there has been some shuffling of the overall lines to get certain players back up to speed. So far this year, they have played only 6 games together and have put up a relatively just okay 56.1% xGoals For % along with a net 0.72 xGoals For Per 60 Minutes, which will have to increase to match any statistical outputs from last season. Hyman broke out as a 50 goals scorer last year, with 54 goals in 80 regular season games, and an additional 16 goals in 25 playoff games, putting his season total at 70 goals. While it was definitely a one-off type of year for Hyman, whose previous career high was 36 goals, there is no reason he cannot reach the 35 goal mark again and contribute regularly on a potent powerplay. McDavid is a generational talent that words cannot do justice for. He has already dealt with an injury setback this year, but it could prove to be a blessing in disguise that gels the lines and acts as a catalyst when he makes his eventual return. It is clear he is all in for the Stanley Cup and do not be surprised to see him win awards or lead his team in a long playoff run again this season. Nugent-Hopkins is a silent leader on this team and the coaching staffs favourite player. He does everything right and is never a defensive liability when he is on the ice. His leadership and ability to step up in big moments, makes him a game breaker on this squad that is full of elite talent.

Line 2
This is where the largest turnover occurred for the Oilers this offseason. They had secondary scoring options last year and it proved to be fatal in the long run. The front office proceeded to sign veteran Skinner and Arvidsson to help bolster their offense and provide a work ethic that aligns with their established team culture. This season they have yet to find any consistency with only 6 games played together as a line. However, they have been effected posting a 64% xGoals For % along with a net 1.18 xGoals For Per 60 Minutes, which makes them a reliable option to stay together by the time playoffs start. Skinner was bought out by Buffalo this offseason and needed a new home that would give him a chance to finally play in the post-season. He has is a gritty competitor that drives the net, fights for pucks, and can finish with the best of them in the slot. While we are yet to see if he can arise to the occasion in the playoffs, signing in Edmonton was a no brainer that helps both Skinner and the Oilers chase the Cup. Draisaitl is arguably one of the top 5 players in the league. He has a natural scoring touch, ability to work the boards in his favour, and an underrated playmaking ability that can wreak havoc. He has already stepped up in McDavid’s absence, but having both stars execute center roles in the top-six lines, is what separates the Oilers offence from other top teams. Arvidsson is a little rat on the ice in the best way possible. Opponents defense hate playing against him, and he can score at a top-six rate naturally. He brings a tougher dynamic to the forward core that was lacking an extra bite, and his game is best suited for when it matters.

Line 3
This line came alive for the Oilers last season in the playoffs, where they were able to couple speed and takeaways to generate rushes and odd man chances. They also proved to be difference makers on the penalty kill, which every championship calibre team needs. Already this season, they have played 11 games together and have managed to post an average 53.3% xGoals For along with a net 0.30 xGoals For Per 60 Minutes. While those numbers are not impressive by any means, they still fall into the positive ranges showcasing their abilities when shutting down tougher matchups. Janmark is a defensive-first forward that can finish when opportunities arise, yet it is not his main focus. He provides speed and leadership by example, and can be an unassuming force for this group. Henrique is a veteran of 924 regular season games, and his decision to return to the Oilers this year was a major one for the team. Having him center the third line allows stability and balance through the entire top-nine group, and he can provide specialty unit contributions at a reliable rate. Brown finally found his form again after dealing with an injury for a few seasons. It is safe to say he was still trying to find his game after sitting out for so long, and seemed to have found it in the playoffs. If he is able to replicate his playoff success for the entire season this year, it makes the Oilers offense that much more consistent.

Line 4
There is a similar identity to the fourth line this year where they prioritize physicality and possession above all else. The front office acquired Podkolzin from Vancouver this offseason and he has fit in well already in his short time with Edmonton. So far this line has played 9 games together, signaling the coaching staffs trust in them altogether. They have managed to produce an unsustainable 84.2% xGoals For % and a net 3.55 xGoals For Per 60 Minutes, which puts them at the top of all the forward lines Edmonton has iced. Podkolzin brings a dash of speed that they are in desperate need of after the loss of Holloway to the Blues. He has some experience at the NHL level, but has never lived up to the potential of being the 10th overall selection in the 2019 Draft. It is fair to speculate that this could be one of his last chances to carve out an NHL future, and so far to this date, he is doing just that. Ryan is a veteran that can hold his own as a bottom-six option. While it is ideal to have more size in this type of role, Ryan continues to prove he is worth playing every night due to his work ethic and speed. Perry is known as the ‘worm’ for good reason, and as he enters the twilight years of his career, and potentially last season, he will be leaving it all on the ice every game he plays. He understands his role and is a professional at stirring the pot or driving the net, a skill set that can be utilized on the secondary power play unit or when momentum needs to be shifted.

Pair 1
This is one of the top 10 pairings in the league over the last few seasons. Since Ekholm was brought into Edmonton at the trade deadline a few years ago, he not only brought his elite game and style to a struggling defensive core, but he brought structured play, leadership qualities, and a toughness that compliments the entire roster. This season they have played every 13 of the games together and have managed to put up an elite 60.7% xGoals For % along with a net 1.26 xGoals For Per 60 Minutes, which is impressive for any pairing with as many minutes as they play. Ekholm’s presence shifted this Oilers team from pretenders to contenders overnight, and he has never slowed down in his Edmonton tenure. He also provided stability to his partner Bouchard, who was able to break out and find his identity as an offensive contributor on the blue line. However, Ekholm will need more defensive support to protect his durability and ensure that he is at the top of his game once again come playoffs. Bouchard is an elite young defenseman that is still getting better at just 25 years old. He compliments Ekholms game perfectly and has developed a lethal shot from the point that creates an option whenever their is offensive zone possession. While he still needs to find consistency in his own end, there is a long leash granted to him as he seemingly plays better with more ice time.

Pair 2
This is where the Oilers start to run into reliable options and their most crucial weak spot overall. While Nurse has been redefining his game and utilizing his physical presence, there will need to be an addition made to maintain the balance of the pairings. Currently this pair has played 8 games together this season and have posted an average 50% xGoals For % along with a net 0.00 xGoals For Per 60 Minutes, which illustrates they are neither liabilities or difference makers when on the ice. Nurse will never live up to his contract cap hit, but he still provides a wealth of leadership and compete level that can translate the entire locker room. There is never a shift that he is not putting his body on the line or trying his best to make plays happen, yet he will need better support from his partner to fully establish his type of game for the playoffs. Stecher seems to be a viable option where the Oilers currently stand, yet he is most likely a candidate for an upgrade come trade deadline. He has a shifty type of game that can provide offense in certain situations, but he is plagued with inconsistencies that hinder him holding onto a top-four role the entire year. While he is up to the task and more than capable to play in the NHL, the Oilers will need to shore up this spot if they plan on lifting Lord Stanley at the end of the year.

Pair 3
This has been an unexpected bright spot for Edmonton this year and seems to be a trustworthy pairing that can carry their defensive play deep into the year. So far they have played 11 games together and have produces an unlikely 62.6% xGoals For % along with an outstanding 1.27 xGoals For Per 60 Minutes, which is elite for any third pairing across the league. Kulak is a steady defensive-first defenseman who can play quality minutes on the penalty kill or be tasked with shutting down top lines of other teams. He is most efficient in a bottom-pairing role and will never be a liability when it comes to keep the puck out of the Oilers net. Emberson went under the radar when he was acquired as part of the trade that sent Cody Ceci to the San Jose Sharks before the season began. He already has a history for playing under head coach Kris Knoblauch and has shown early signs of success in the bottom-pairing role. There may have been a hope for him to slot next to Nurse on the second pair, but it would be wise for the coaching staff to stick with the production this pairing has earned this season so far.

Goalies
One of the better stories of last season was witnessing the emergence of Skinner as a reliable starter, especially when the post season began. He earned his role through determination and persistence along with a compete level that few possess. However, he still has inconsistency issues that plagues him last season and has started this year slow regardless of his impressive playoff experience last season. He will need to step up yet again and showcase to management why he is the longterm solution in net and finally expel the inconsistencies that can pop up every few games. Pickard is a bright spot for this team as well and is a suitable backup that can play 20 games in the regular season, and provide relief when Skinner has an off night. He may not be a difference maker on the ice but he is one in the dressing room and culture, so his presence on the team is crucial for long-term success.

Scratches
The Oilers have done a solid job at insulating their NHL roster with reliable depth pieces that can play in sheltered roles. While they do not have any game-breaking options, they still have the abilities to provide trustworthy play in their respective roles. Kane may or may not play this season due to injury sustained last year, but it is clear how much of a difference he will make in the forward group if he is able to return healthy at some point. Philp is a great story of resilience, having one point in his career where it seemed his playing days were over. Now he has solidified himself in the ‘first man up’ territory for a team with Cup aspirations. Dermott provides decent defensive depth and will continue to find himself in a rotation role with Stecher. Ideally he stays as an injury option and the Oilers are able to upgrade their top-four defense on route to a long playoff run.

Keys to Success

For the Oilers to succeed, they’ll need a potent combination of offense, depth, and strategic in-game management. Their offensive powerhouse, led by McDavid and Draisaitl, should continue to shine, but this year’s additions provide a broader offensive toolkit. Skinner’s shot accuracy and hockey IQ, along with Arvidsson’s speed and net-front presence, can add the layers Edmonton needs to become a complete, multidimensional threat. The addition of Vasily Podkolzin gives the team more depth in younger legs, adding a forward who can both score and press defensively, which will be invaluable in later rounds when opponents tighten their defensive strategies. Henrique’s experience and defensive responsibility further stabilize their bottom-six forwards, allowing the Oilers to ice lineups capable of maintaining momentum across all shifts. Team veterans Zach Hyman and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins will be relied on in significant roles again to produce on both ends of the ice and give their stars options for offense.

Goalie consistency is another pillar in the Oilers hopes for success. Edmonton’s goaltending, which was reliable for most of last season, will need to be even more dependable in this high-stakes season. Stuart Skinner will be tasked with absorbing pressure from occasional defensive breakdowns, especially if the second pairing struggles against top offensive threats. Having showed promise in last years deep playoff run, he has started the year off slow and will need to pick up momentum to be a difference maker again. Calvin Pickard is a calm on-ice and locker room presence that will be critical to balance Skinner’s workload. A dependable goaltending duo that can provide strong, consistent play could be the difference between securing a top playoff seed and falling short in tight games.

In terms of management and on-ice adjustments, the Oilers will need Bowman to bring in valuable reinforcements at the trade deadline. An experienced defenseman who can hold the second pairing steady could solidify the team’s backend. Bowman’s moves will be vital in shaping the team’s fortunes, both for this season and for their future under tight cap constraints.

Potential Downfall

While the Oilers look poised to be serious contenders, there are underlying concerns that could derail their season if not addressed. The primary worry is their defensive structure. Though Edmonton has made strides in building a balanced roster, their inability to secure a solid second defensive pairing is a weak spot that could be exploited by playoff-caliber teams. The Oilers have depth pieces on defense, but without a dependable second pairing, they risk overburdening their top defenders. If injuries or fatigue set in among the blueline, or if their defense falters in critical moments, it could leave their goalies overexposed and make it challenging to keep up with opponents’ scoring.

Additionally, the Oilers’ “win-now” mentality has led to the departure of promising young talent. Losing Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg stings, not only because of their potential but also because they could have developed into valuable assets within the organization. Their exits signal the Oilers commitment to prioritizing experience and immediate results over building from within, but if the team falls short of the Cup this year, the lack of a younger pipeline may impact their depth for seasons to come. Bowman’s presence, too, is a mixed blessing. While his experience is an asset, his controversial past has already garnered mixed reactions, and any missteps in leadership or player management could sow discord.

Finally, there’s the challenge of roster cohesion. Integrating several new players and building chemistry will be a process, and if Edmonton struggles to gel early in the season, like they already have, it could cost them valuable points and place additional pressure on the group. Expectations from fans and media are at an all time high, and if the Oilers falter, the increased scrutiny could negatively affect the locker room dynamic.

Future Outlook

The Oilers future is looking brighter than ever with a deep and talented prospect pool, headlined by recent acquisition Matthew Savoie. Acquired from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for Ryan McLeod, Savoie brings elite offensive skills and high-end playmaking potential that could see him develop into a dynamic, top-six forward in Edmonton’s system. His speed and creativity make him a perfect fit for the Oilers fast tempo style and, in time, could add a new layer of depth to the team’s scoring arsenal. Alongside Savoie, the Oilers have invested wisely in young talent, building a prospect pipeline that balances immediate impact potential with future versatility across all positions.

On defense, prospects like Beau Akey and Paul Fischer show promise in their respective roles. Akey, known for his smooth skating and puck-moving abilities, could develop into a key two-way defenseman, while Fischer’s defensive reliability and physical play style make him a strong candidate for a shutdown role in a few years. Forward prospects like Roby Järventie, a skilled Finnish winger, and Matvey Petrov, who has a dangerous shot, add scoring depth with high upside. Järventie’s size and scoring touch could make him a valuable middle-six forward, while Petrov’s offensive instincts make him an intriguing option if he continues to develop his all around game.

In net, Olivier Rodrigue offers depth and long-term potential, showing steady improvement that could see him compete for a roster spot in the near future. These prospects, along with promising pieces like Maxim Berezkin and Max Wanner, give the Oilers flexibility as they navigate the salary cap with big contracts on the books for McDavid and Draisaitl. This balanced prospect pool allows Edmonton to remain competitive in the present while nurturing future talent, ensuring that the team can continue to contend for years to come.

Final Thoughts

The Edmonton Oilers are attacking this season with all the right pieces to make a serious run at the Stanley Cup, motivated by last year’s loss and strengthened by significant offseason moves. Their blend of superstar talent, veteran additions, and a restructured front office signals a team that is prepared to do whatever it takes to go all the way. The Oilers depth, scoring, and competitive drive give them the tools to succeed, but they’ll need to stay healthy, bolster their defense, and maintain a consistent goaltending presence to reach their potential. If they can manage these variables, they’re capable of delivering the Stanley Cup to Edmonton.

This season will define the Oilers trajectory, not only as they pursue immediate glory but as they set the tone for the future. The stakes are higher than ever, and with the right balance of resilience and adaptability, this team has the talent and depth to bring the long awaited championship to Edmonton.