Things have quickly unraveled in Edmonton. What was expected to be another deep Stanley Cup run instead turned into a shocking first-round exit against the Anaheim Ducks, and now the pressure surrounding the organization is starting to boil over.
With frustration growing from ownership down to the roster, the Oilers could be headed toward one of the most dramatic offseasons in recent franchise history after Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl openly voiced concerns about the team’s direction.
Major Oilers Changes Loom After Playoff Collapse
The Oilers never truly found consistency this season. They finished second in the Pacific Division with a 41-30-11 record and 93 points, but compared to the Eastern Conference, that total likely wouldn’t have been enough to secure a playoff spot.
Even so, Edmonton entered the first-round series against the Ducks as the clear favorite, thanks to consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances and the star power of McDavid and Draisaitl. Instead, they were sent packing in six games.
After the loss, McDavid didn’t sugarcoat his assessment of the season. “We were an average team all year,” McDavid admitted. “An average team with high expectations, you’re going to be disappointed.”
His words carried extra significance considering what he gave up to remain in Edmonton. Despite reportedly being able to command close to $18.8 million annually, McDavid chose to sign a two-year extension at his current $12.5 million cap hit.
Draisaitl shared a similar level of frustration and made it clear he believes the team is heading in the wrong direction. “I am concerned because we’re not trending in the right direction,” Draisaitl said. “We’ve taken big steps backward and have to get a grip of this and head back in the right direction.”
Now, NHL insider Frank Seravalli believes major changes could be coming in Edmonton following blunt comments from the team’s nucleus.
“I do think significant changes are coming in Edmonton,” said Seravalli. “But I don’t know if it’s gonna come on the back of listening to their superstars, maybe just in the sense that they heard them loud and clear, and understanding that this organization took steps backwards.”
Seravalli went on to suggest that a coaching change is becoming increasingly likely, adding that Kris Knoblauch and his staff could be on the way out. He also hinted at potential front-office restructuring as the organization looks to reset after another disappointing finish.
Seravalli also questioned whether Edmonton could move on from Darnell Nurse’s massive contract while prioritizing a reliable goalie this offseason. “I think any one of those things would force you to talk about them the next day. I think the totality of it and what we’re going to see for the most consequential offseason maybe in Edmonton Oilers history on tap is worth watching,” he added.
With McDavid and Draisaitl firmly in their prime and expectations in Edmonton still sky-high, this offseason could shape the future of the franchise for years to come.
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Now, all eyes are on how aggressively the Oilers decide to respond.
