The Edmonton Oilers’ preseason has concluded, leaving them with more questions than answers as they head into the regular season. With only three wins in eight exhibition games and a disappointing performance against the Vancouver Canucks, the team faces a critical juncture. Here’s a closer look at the key takeaways from their preseason, what needs to be addressed, and the potential impact on their upcoming campaign.
Defensive Shortcomings Demand Immediate Attention
The Oilers have always prided themselves on their offensive prowess, but their defensive play during the preseason was concerning. Allowing an average of 4.5 goals per game, including multiple instances of six goals against in a single match, raised red flags. The penalty kill, which had been a strong point during their playoff run, faltered significantly, managing only a 73.1% success rate. This decline can be attributed to the loss of critical penalty killers from the previous season, leaving gaps that opponents readily exploited.
Head Coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledged the need for improvement, emphasizing the urgency as they approach the regular season. The team must address the breakdowns close to their net, which were highlighted by players like Troy Stecher and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. The Oilers have a formidable offense, but without a solid defensive foundation, their aspirations for a successful season could be jeopardized.
The Importance of Chemistry Among Key Players
Another area of concern is the chemistry between Leon Draisaitl and his new wingers, Jeff Skinner and Viktor Arvidsson. Despite the high expectations surrounding this trio, their performance during the preseason suggested that they need more time to gel. The lack of pace and coordination was evident, particularly during crucial moments in games.
Knoblauch’s decision to experiment with line combinations, moving Draisaitl alongside Connor McDavid, indicates a proactive approach to boost offensive production. However, establishing a reliable second line is essential for the Oilers’ depth. The coaching staff must commit to providing Draisaitl and his new linemates with more opportunities to develop their chemistry if they hope to alleviate the pressure on McDavid and Hyman.
Emerging Talent: Noah Philp’s Impressive Preseason
Among the bright spots of the Oilers’ preseason was Noah Philp. After a year away from hockey for personal reasons, Philp returned with a renewed focus and determination. With a faceoff win percentage of 56.1% and contributions on both ends of the ice, he emerged as a strong candidate for a roster spot. Philp’s ability to perform in various roles could provide the Oilers with much-needed depth, especially considering the age of some players on the fourth line.
However, the Oilers face a dilemma regarding Philp’s immediate future. With waiver exemption status, sending him to the minors could allow him to gain more experience while freeing up cap space. Despite this, his performance warrants serious consideration for a spot on the roster, especially with potential injury concerns looming over the veteran players.
Travis Dermott’s Strong Case for a Contract
Another player making waves during the preseason was Travis Dermott. Although he was sidelined for the final game, his previous performances showcased his potential as a reliable defenseman. The Oilers’ defensive lineup remains in flux, and Dermott’s solid showing could earn him a contract. With the possibility of waiving underperforming players like Josh Brown, signing Dermott could enhance the team’s overall defense while offering a cost-effective solution.
The Oilers are at a crossroads as they prepare for the regular season. With essential adjustments required in both their defensive strategy and forward chemistry, the team must act swiftly to address these issues. The emergence of players like Philp and Dermott adds a layer of complexity to their roster decisions, but it also provides hope for a more balanced and competitive squad.
As the Oilers gear up for their season opener, the focus will be on translating preseason lessons into meaningful results. The stakes are high for a team that reached the Stanley Cup Finals, and they must harness the urgency to improve if they aim to contend for the championship once again. The regular season awaits, and the Oilers have the potential to rise to the occasion—if they can effectively tackle these pressing challenges.