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3 Takeaways from the last week of Oilers hockey

By Almar Reyes

Apr 17, 2023; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers head coach Jay Woodcroft during the first period against the Los Angeles Kings in game one of the first round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Walter Tychnowicz-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 17, 2023; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers head coach Jay Woodcroft during the first period against the Los Angeles Kings in game one of the first round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Walter Tychnowicz-USA TODAY Sports /
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Edmonton Oilers
Nov 2, 2023; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers defensemen Cody Ceci (5) checks Dallas Stars forward Roope Hintz (24) over goaltender Stuart Skinner (74) during the third period at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports /

2) Trouble killing penalties

The Edmonton Oilers, a team with a storied history and passionate fan base, are off to a franchise-worst start to the season. With a dismal 2-7-1 record in the early stages, a multitude of factors have contributed to their struggles. However, one glaring issue that stands out is their struggling penalty kill. It’s a critical component of any successful team’s arsenal, and for the Oilers, it’s been nothing short of a liability this season.

In the fast-paced world of professional hockey, a strong penalty kill is often the difference between victory and defeat. For the Oilers, this crucial aspect of their game has been lacking. The numbers don’t lie. Edmonton finds themselves near the bottom of the league in penalty-killing efficiency, a stark contrast to their performance in recent seasons.

The penalty kill is an area where a team’s defensive prowess is put to the challenge. It’s a test of character, skill, and teamwork, and the Oilers have struggled to pass it. Effective penalty-killing units require disciplined positioning, shot-blocking, clear communication, and a reliable goaltender. Unfortunately, the Oilers have found themselves lacking in some, if not all, of these areas.

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Against the Stars and Predators the Oilers were a combined 2-for-6 in the penalty kill. When their goaltending is near the bottom of the league, the penalty killers have to step up to aide in this troublesome stat.

Penalties can change the momentum of a game in an instant. When a team is unable to successfully kill off these infractions, it puts added pressure on the rest of the squad. The Oilers’ inability to do so has been a significant contributing factor to their early-season woes.

To pinpoint the root of the problem, one must consider various aspects, such as player personnel, coaching strategies, and special teams coordination. The Oilers will need to assess whether their current roster has the necessary components to excel in the penalty-killing department, and if not, consider potential lineup changes or acquisitions to address this critical issue.

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