Edmonton Oilers: Milan Lucic Can Build On 2016-17 Success

When the Edmonton Oilers signed Milan Lucic to a seven-year deal worth $42 million last July, they knew they were getting a much-needed asset.

Lucic came in with two goals in mind. First, he wanted to establish a positive culture throughout the organization. Second, he wanted to help the team become tougher, better and more competitive. In just one season, he’s accomplished both objectives with his on and off-ice presence.

Edmonton Oilers

In addition, the 29-year-old put up solid numbers, finishing with 23 goals and 50 points. Lucic also has 202 hits and 26 takeaways and helped the Oilers end an 11-year playoff drought. His success carried into the postseason, as he registered two goals and six points through 13 playoff games.

With Edmonton seeking a Cup run this coming year, Lucic will be a major part of the team’s performance. Now a year older and more comfortable with the team, will Lucic carry over his success from his first year with the Oilers?

First off, Lucic’s offensive ability is unprecedented. He is able to get in front of the net and create screens, while also picking up the puck in front of the net and deflecting shots. This not only makes him an asset on the top six but gives him an important role on the power-play.

By a slim margin, however, more of Lucic’s goals came on the man advantage than at even strength. In 5-on-5 hockey, Lucic must improve his speed and make more use of his shot. if he can do that, more goals and production will come, no matter how many men are on the ice.

Defensively, Lucic plays a solid, safe game. He uses his size and physicality to win battles for the puck and is able to stand up to the opposition. One area where he must improve, however, is maintaining possession and avoiding turnovers. Lucic gave away the puck 49 times this season.

Still, he sticks up for his teammates and serves as a physical presence, and that alone makes the Oilers tougher, aggressive and of course, harder to play against.

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Overall, Lucic is a solid player for Edmonton but could do more to help his team and carry over that success from last season, while producing more.