The Edmonton Oilers have taken steps to solidify their team for the upcoming 2025-26 season by securing star captain Connor McDavid with a short-term contract extension. Despite recent Stanley Cup final appearances, the team faces lingering uncertainties in various areas such as goaltending, depth, defense, and McDavid’s linemates.
McDavid’s new two-year, $25-million extension, with an annual average value of $12.5 million, reflects his commitment to the team’s success and desire to win the Stanley Cup. General manager Stan Bowman emphasized McDavid’s priority for winning over financial considerations and the team’s immediate focus on achieving success.
Head coach Kris Knoblauch highlighted the importance of addressing key issues, including finding suitable linemates for McDavid and managing ice time effectively. The team’s goaltending situation, led by Stuart Skinner and supported by Connor Ingram and Calvin Pickard, has been a subject of fan scrutiny, despite the management’s confidence in their choices.
Defensively, the Oilers boast depth and experience in their top pairings, but maintaining player health and performance consistency will be crucial for success. As the team aims for a third consecutive Stanley Cup final appearance, history serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by teams in such scenarios.
Skinner’s offseason conditioning and the addition of a new goaltending coach signal positive developments for the team’s netminders. The Oilers also have a mix of young talents and seasoned players, including rookies like Matt Savoie and Noah Philip, contributing to the team’s energy and potential success.
The season starts with forward Zach Hyman on the injured reserve list due to a wrist injury, impacting the team’s lineup at the beginning of the season. Despite challenges and uncertainties, the Oilers remain focused on their goal of winning and making a strong impact in the upcoming season.