With the NHL season inching closer to its halfway point, the Edmonton Oilers are experiencing both highs and lows, setting the stage for important roster decisions and potential playoff pushes.
A major focal point for the Oilers this summer will be the contract situation of defenceman Evan Bouchard. The 25-year-old player, known for his offensive capabilities, is coming off two successful playoff runs and just recently became the fifth-fastest active NHL defenceman to reach 200 career points. Despite his offensive prowess, the fan base remains divided on his value to the team. Bouchard is slated to become a restricted free agent (RFA) this summer and will likely seek a significant pay raise from his current cap hit of $3.9 million.
Some critics argue against offering Bouchard a large extension, pointing to his occasional defensive lapses, including costly turnovers or lost battles along the boards. While these criticisms have some merit, they largely overlook Bouchard's contribution to the team. Currently, he leads all Oilers defencemen with seven goals and 30 points, showing his significant impact.
According to Natural Stat Trick, Bouchard boasts strong numbers, including a 59.03 scoring chances-for percentage (SCF%) and 58.36 high-danger chances-for percentage (HDCF%). He has demonstrated the ability to drive offensive play, especially considering his goaltenders' mediocre .895 save percentage (SV%) during his time on the ice. His performance is indispensable, especially considering the current state of the Oilers' blueline, where he is their only reliable right-side defenceman.
Meanwhile, forward Jeff Skinner has recently made strides toward securing his place within the Oilers’ roster. After experiencing what can only be described as a tough stretch, including being dropped to the fourth line and even being scratched from games, Skinner’s work ethic has earned him recognition from head coach Kris Knoblauch. Skinner is back up to the third line and has contributed positively in recent games, ending his scoring drought with key goals and assists.
Knoblauch praised Skinner’s progression: “He’s been playing really well,” noting his recent results and improved attention to the defensive side of the game. After initially joining the Oilers with aspirations of playing alongside stars like Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl, Skinner found himself battling for playing time but has opted to stay focused on his game. “He’s an absolute professional,” remarked Knoblauch, commending Skinner’s ability to adapt.
Despite recent successes, Skinner has never played a playoff game throughout his 1,044-game NHL career, making his current situation with the Oilers particularly significant. Continuing this upward trend could yield great rewards, especially as the Oilers gear up for the postseason.
Off the ice, the Oilers face not only roster concerns but logistical challenges as they navigate their demanding schedule. Currently, the team is embarked on what amounts to a 15-day road trip, playing eight games across various cities and time zones, including stops from Seattle to Boston to Pittsburgh. This condensed schedule requires the players to prioritize rest and recovery to maintain their performance levels.
Knoblauch emphasized the importance of proper rest: “The most important thing is players being able to get their sleep.” The Oilers have strategically managed their travel arrangements, staying over in certain cities to allow players additional sleep time, which could prove pivotal for the long trip. “We’ll see how it goes,” Knoblauch said optimistically.
Looking to the future, fans are already speculating on potential trade moves as the deadline approaches. With concerns about the depth and grit within the squad, many are asking whether the Oilers will pursue players to bolster their lineup. Names like Taylor Hall and Matthieu Olivier have surfaced as potential targets. The Oilers could benefit from Hall’s speed, but concerns about his current production and fit within the team’s left-wing lineup may complicate any potential deal.
For the Oilers, the upcoming trade deadline presents another chance to adjust their roster. With Evander Kane currently recuperated from surgery and expected to return at some point, his addition would reinvigorate the offensive depth of the team significantly. Kane, who brings both intimidation on the ice and scoring ability, would likely fit well with either Draisaitl or McDavid, should he resume form quickly.
Therefore, as the Oilers continue their season with their eyes set on playoff contention, both immediate performance and long-term planning will have to coexist effectively. Ensuring players like Bouchard are locked down, managing the development of others like Skinner, and addressing roster depth either through trades or player returns will determine their success down the stretch.