Edmonton Oilers: Ryan Strome Must Ready for Bigger Role

Edmonton Oilers forward Ryan Strome has shown his potential to improve but must translate that as the season kicks off.

Edmonton Oilers

In 69 games with the New York Islanders last season, the 23-year-old had 13 goals and 30 points and appeared to struggle with consistency and production. And as he experiences a change of scenery, being shipped out in exchange for Jordan Eberle, he has to take on more responsibility and try to improve his totals. So far, however, he has gone scoreless through three games and hasn’t done much to stand out.

In Monday’s loss to Winnipeg, Leon Draisaitl suffered an eye injury, which has kept him off the ice. And as he draws out of the lineup indefinitely, Strome could see more opportunity and must make the most of it.

More Responsibility

The 23-year-old got to skate alongside Connor McDavid and Patrick Maroon Wednesday. And though Kailer Yamamoto replaced him on that top unit Thursday, he could see time on that line heading into Saturday’s game and must make the most of that chance. That means taking more shots, using his speed to his advantage and showing a lot of synergy.

In the preseason, Strome got to see time on the top trio, and he had chemistry there. With his skating and playmaking ability, he could bounce off McDavid well, which creates more scoring chances. And playing alongside the Oilers’ captain, he will need to take more shots. He has just five shots through three games, and if he’s going to be a top-line winger, he’ll have to contribute a lot more offence.

If he remains at centre on the third line, he will have to take more initiative and use his speed and offensive vision to start creating more chances. This also includes generating more shots on goal and taking on more responsibility to score. He can stand to win more draws as well.

In addition, the 6-foot-1, 194-pound forward needs to take better care of the puck and be more aware offensively. He could also use his size to his advantage and throw his weight around a bit more. Strome could also do more to win battles for the puck and be a stronger presence in his own zone.

Next: Edmonton Oilers: Auvitu Deserves Shot at Action

Overall, he has the potential to grow and excel with the Oilers, but as he transitions into potentially a bigger role, the expectations will increase. And as that happens, he must be ready to live up to that potential.