The Edmonton Oilers are entering a pivotal offseason, determined to shore up key areas of their roster after a disappointing loss in the Stanley Cup Final. Despite finishing third in the Pacific Division with 101 points during the regular season, the team fell short of their ultimate goal, prompting general manager Stan Bowman to confront the team’s needs amid tight salary cap constraints. Among the Oilers’ top priorities are locking in a long-term deal for elite defenseman Evan Bouchard, improving their goaltending situation, and boosting secondary scoring to better support franchise cornerstones Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
By the Numbers
Evan Bouchard logged an average of 23:28 minutes per game in 2024–25 and tallied 149 points in his last 163 appearances.
Goaltender Stuart Skinner struggled, posting a career-low .896 save percentage in the regular season and an even lower .889 in the playoffs.
Yes, But…
The team’s challenges are compounded by growing uncertainty around Connor McDavid’s contract situation. With public speculation swirling, the pressure is mounting for Edmonton to prove they’re building a sustainable contender.
State of Play
The Oilers recently created $5.125 million in cap space by trading Evander Kane.
Preliminary talks regarding McDavid’s extension are underway, though no deal appears imminent.
What’s Next
Securing Bouchard’s long-term future is critical to avoid exposure to an offer sheet. Edmonton must also address their goaltending woes, especially if Skinner’s form doesn’t rebound.
Bottom Line
Edmonton needs to move with urgency this offseason. Solidifying Bouchard’s deal and managing McDavid’s contract situation are essential steps if the team hopes to stay competitive and finally capture the Stanley Cup after repeated close calls.
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