3 Expectations for the Edmonton Oilers in 2023-24
The Edmonton Oilers have huge expectations going into this season and from what has been observed, it will be a lot of fun to watch them play.
The expectations and motivation going forward for the Edmonton Oilers, are strong signs they will be competing at their best level yet, during the 2023-24 season. Given that the team has acquired all types of experience in different scenarios during stressful times in the playoffs, has put these players in a better position to compete in a win-now situation.
From where General Manager Ken Holland stands, it seems clear he will be looking to make moves according to the roster’s needs. From this standpoint, he may go in for a defenceman and two forwards who can help support a run during the playoff push.
The general idea is, however, that the team will play harder this year to make a statement, but make their best statement by winning the Stanley Cup. This is the promising feat the Oilers are looking to achieve, and to think there will be an improvement from the team is a sign they are headed in the right direction and will be able to compete consistently at an elite level.
For Oilers fans, it is somewhat of a privilege watching this team play night in and out. They are working hard on their chemistry on-ice, to provide the fans with the type of dominance they are capable of having over other teams in the league.
1) Killer instinct
The first expectation for the Oilers, is to have that killer instinct when it comes to their games played going forward. To maintain their leads in games — which they lacked at times last season — is of prime importance for the team’s needs in 2023-24.
One of the most beneficial factors that will help closing out games is if the third and fourth lines can step up more, managing to play a good defensive game, balanced with their offence. Putting pressure on the opposing teams, creating costly turnovers like the top-six would during the rush, will ultimately help in winning games.
One of the prime factors which helps the Oilers, is that they are well-coached by Jay Woodcroft, with the combination of his tactics and encouraging his players to perform well. Another major reason the players are adapting well, is because of the techniques used by the coach, which appeal to the roster.
2) Mental fortitude
The second expectation of the Edmonton Oilers, is the motivation the team has to play with — and will play with — as a result of dramatic playoff series losses. Will they be able to overcome any thoughts of the playoff losses of seasons past, or will previous mistakes be too much for them to overcome mentally?
The thinking is the Oilers will benefit from those previous worst-case scenarios, because of the mental tenacity and focus the lineup has for this season. By far, they are primed to do well, because of certain aspects the players are working on.
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One being, they are learning from each other’s mistakes and taking into consideration the chances that have slipped away previously. Also, they will play with a certain dedication to erase the post-season disappointments that have come before.
Another aspect is that this team is working diligently on their team chemistry, getting to know each other’s game a lot more. The roster is set and equipped to perform on-ice and produce at an elite level.
3) Goals, goals, goals
The third expectation is the scoring touch this Oilers team has, and needs to be consistent with. The roster is glowing with confidence and is confident about utilizing Woodcroft’s plan effectively on the ice.
It will be interesting to see how far this team can push themselves to the limit of what they are capable of. From one perspective, this team is being observed as an intimidating club to face during the regular season, and this is something they need to take advantage of.
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The Edmonton Oilers have the two best players currently in the game, in Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Together with a roster full of talent and depth, this will be an incredibly fun team to watch, and the fans are in for a treat.