With Leon Draisaitl out, the Edmonton Oilers are going through a stretch that tests their depth and flexibility. The wins continue, but their offensive style has clearly changed without one of their top scorers. At the center of this shift is Connor McDavid, who has leaned more toward finishing plays rather than just creating them.
As the captain takes on that added responsibility, the Oilers are learning how much each role must adjust to maintain their momentum.
How Connor McDavid Is Stepping Into a Trigger Role as the Oilers Adapt Without Leon Draisaitl
McDavid did not avoid the topic when asked about his approach without Draisaitl in the lineup, making it clear that his role has changed in both mindset and execution. With Draisaitl sidelined due to a lower-body injury that will keep him out for the rest of the regular season, the Oilers have needed a different offensive look, especially in key moments and on the power play.
Speaking after the win over the San Jose Sharks, McDavid addressed the idea of becoming more of a shooter rather than just a playmaker.
“When you don’t have Leon, someone has to be the trigger man,” he said, acknowledging the absence of one of the league’s top finishers. “Obviously, he’s a special goal scorer, and everybody is always looking for him. So yes, the answer would be yes.”
McDavid admitted the adjustment has been intentional, noting, “There is definitely a conscious effort to shoot the puck more, attack a little bit more, be a little bit more assertive in the O-zone and on the power play. We certainly miss him, but he’ll be back and ready.”
This change was evident in his performance on Wednesday, when he was part of every goal in a 5-2 win, recording a hat trick and two assists. After San Jose opened the scoring on the power play, McDavid responded in minutes and controlled the tempo with his speed and decision-making.
Meanwhile, Draisaitl is recovering from a second-degree MCL injury suffered on March 15 against the Nashville Predators, and while he is progressing toward a return, the timeline points to a possible comeback during the first round of the playoffs. Until then, Edmonton has had to rely more heavily on McDavid’s ability to create offense in multiple ways.
Despite some inconsistency this season, the Oilers remain in first place in the Pacific Division with 90 points, holding a narrow edge over close rivals. Their offense continues to lead the way, even as defensive issues have impacted their overall results compared to previous years.
McDavid’s individual numbers underline his influence, as he leads the league with 133 points. His recent stretch has helped Edmonton go 6-1-1 over its last eight games, keeping it strong as the regular season winds down.
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