3 Things For The Edmonton Oilers NOT To Do Now

Nov 9, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; Edmonton Oilers center Ryan McLeod (71) and San Jose Sharks defenseman Mario Ferraro (38) battle for the puck on the boards behind the net during the first period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 9, 2023; San Jose, California, USA; Edmonton Oilers center Ryan McLeod (71) and San Jose Sharks defenseman Mario Ferraro (38) battle for the puck on the boards behind the net during the first period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports
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Edmonton Oilers Goalie Jack Campbell
VANCOUVER, CANADA – OCTOBER 11: Jack Campbell #36 of the Edmonton Oilers in net during the first period of their NHL game against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena on October 11, 2023 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Photo by Derek Cain/Getty Images)

As a fan of the Edmonton Oilers, it’s understandable to be frustrated with the team’s recent struggles. However, knee-jerk reactions can not only hurt the team now but affect the team in the coming years.

There are some things the team should look at doing right now to help, but there are also things that they shouldn’t think of doing. Here are my top 3 things that the Edmonton Oilers need to avoid doing.

Don’t Make a Knee-jerk Trade

It’s important to remember that hockey is a team sport. Blaming one player or line for the team’s struggles is not fair or accurate. The Oilers need to work on their overall team effort and strategy before considering a trade.

Making a trade could also potentially disrupt the team dynamic even further. Bringing in a new player, especially if they are not familiar with the team’s system, could cause more harm than good. It’s important to give the current players a chance to work together and improve before shaking things up.

Making a trade could also lead to the loss of valuable assets. The Oilers would have to give up a promising player or draft pick to make a trade. These assets could be crucial in building a stronger team in the long run.

The Oilers are a team in need and the other 31 teams can see it. So why would a team want to help them? I remember right before Peter Chiarelli got fired he made a few trades to try and save the season, but Caggiula for Brandan Manning did nothing. Nor did the Ryan Strome for Ryan Spooner deal.

Overall, knee-jerk reactions like making a trade may seem like a quick fix, but they often do more harm than good. The Edmonton Oilers need to focus on improving their team effort and strategy before considering any drastic changes. Patience and perseverance are key in the long run.