Changes are potentially on the horizon for the Edmonton Oilers as they grapple with inconsistencies and search for solutions following a disheartening 8-3 defeat at home against the Dallas Stars. This latest loss underscores deeper issues plaguing the team, extending beyond mere isolated incidents.
After dropping four of their last five games, the frustration was visible on Connor McDavid's face during the postgame media availability. When asked about the team's disastrous first period, the Oilers' captain repeated, “I don't know. I don't know. Yeah, I don't. I don't have many answers for you here tonight". That lack of explanation reflected a larger issue: Edmonton's problems are no longer isolated, they are structural. The Oilers allowed four goals on eight first-period shots, leaving both Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard exposed behind a collapsing system.
Edmonton's struggles aren't new, with slow starts becoming a worrying trend. The Oilers currently sit at 10-10-5. While they have shown the ability to recover in the past, as they have reached the Stanley Cup Final the past two seasons, this season's challenges appear more profound. The team’s defensive frailties and goaltending inconsistencies have been particularly glaring. Their .860 team save percentage is the lowest since their inaugural NHL season in 1979-80.
McDavid, despite his individual brilliance with 34 points in 25 games, echoed the sentiment that the team's struggles are a collective issue. "I really feel like goaltending is a team thing," McDavid told reporters. "It's tough for goalies to look good when the group in front of them is not playing well".
In response to the team's poor performance, the Oilers made changes to their coaching staff. Paul McFarland was hired as an assistant coach, Peter Aubry as goaltending coach, and Conor Allen as a skills coach. Additionally, Paul Coffey returned to his role as a special advisor. The Oilers also extended the contracts of assistant coach Mark Stuart and video coach Noah Segall.
With limited cap space and a lack of readily available options, significant roster changes might be challenging to execute immediately. However, there are reports of potential trades, including a possible swap involving Stuart Skinner and Jordan Binnington of the St. Louis Blues.
Coach Kris Knoblauch is now facing increased scrutiny. While Knoblauch has had success, coaches are often the first to face the axe when a team underperforms. Potential replacements could include promoting assistant coach Paul MacFarland, or bringing in experienced coaches like Peter Laviolette or David Carle.
The Oilers' General Manager, Stan Bowman, faces mounting pressure to identify and implement changes that can salvage the season. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the Oilers can turn their season around or if more drastic measures are needed.
