3 Oilers Who May Not Complete Their Current Contracts

EDMONTON, CANADA - MAY 14: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins #93, Darnell Nurse #25, and Jack Campbell #36 of the Edmonton Oilers defend the net in the third period against the Las Vegas Golden Knights in Game Six of the Second Round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs on May 14, 2023 at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Lawrence Scott/Getty Images)
EDMONTON, CANADA - MAY 14: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins #93, Darnell Nurse #25, and Jack Campbell #36 of the Edmonton Oilers defend the net in the third period against the Las Vegas Golden Knights in Game Six of the Second Round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs on May 14, 2023 at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Lawrence Scott/Getty Images)
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EDMONTON, CANADA – FEBRUARY 21: Cody Ceci #5 of the Edmonton Oilers skates during the game in the third period against the Philadelphia Flyers on February 21, 2023 at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Lawrence Scott/Getty Images)
EDMONTON, CANADA – FEBRUARY 21: Cody Ceci #5 of the Edmonton Oilers skates during the game in the third period against the Philadelphia Flyers on February 21, 2023 at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Lawrence Scott/Getty Images)

D Cody Ceci

When Cody Ceci joined the Edmonton Oilers, there were high hopes that he would provide stability and contribute significantly to the team’s defense. Following a solid season in 2021-2022, where he showcased his ability to make an impact, Ceci faced significant struggles in the subsequent season. With only 15 points to his name, his performance fell well below expectations.

Ceci’s underwhelming performance raises questions about the Oilers’ defensive stability and their long-term plans. They require a reliable and consistent defensive presence as a team seeking to contend for a championship. Ceci’s struggles may prompt the organization to reevaluate its defensive strategy and potentially explore other options to bolster its blue line. Additionally, the financial investment made in Ceci’s contract adds another layer of consideration, as his performance will be closely scrutinized in relation to his salary.

As the Edmonton Oilers set their sights on contending for the coveted Stanley Cup, one crucial area they must address is the performance of their second defenseman pairing. Last season, the lacklustre efforts from Darnell Nurse and Cody Ceci hampered the team’s defensive effectiveness and overall championship aspirations. As the new season approaches, the team cannot afford to have a repeat of those struggles if they wish to make a legitimate push for the Cup.