3 aspects to look forward to from the Edmonton Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers have faced their share of controversy in past seasons, and this year is no exception. As I mentioned in a previous post, the team will encounter challenges that could test their confidence. However, rather than viewing these as setbacks, the Oilers can use them as opportunities to take control of their future in a positive way.

You might call this a learning curve for the Edmonton Oilers, driven by the negative attention surrounding the team during the offseason. On top of that, the gaps in their defensive system are shaping up to be a worrisome scenario. However, these challenges present an opportunity for the Oilers to adapt and grow stronger as they navigate the season.

To be fair to the Oilers' coaching staff—and, most importantly, the club—the season has only just begun and will continue through April 2025. Many analysts have pointed out that it may take some time for the team to find its footing due to the new additions and roster tweaks management has made. While early concerns are understandable, there's still plenty of time for the Oilers to settle into their formation as the season progresses.

Familiarizing themselves with each other's gameplay and helping younger players measure up to the veterans will naturally take time and create some challenges. This process may cause initial strain, but it will ultimately build cohesion within the team. Additionally, many have questioned how the new additions to the roster will work out for the Oilers, adding another layer of uncertainty as the season unfolds.

This season presents a stepping stone for the Edmonton Oilers to regroup, become more potent, and send a message to the rest of the NHL—especially to teams that have started strong. Ultimately, it's not about how you begin but how you finish, and the Oilers are positioning themselves for a winning record by season’s end.

1) The Oilers Will Overcome Their Biggest Challenges

For those unfamiliar with the Oilers, they are a resilient team that competes fiercely every night, giving 110% effort in every game. While it's true in sports that "you can't win every game," the Oilers will still be a force to reckon with this season and in years to come.

Many have predicted that the Oilers will be one of the toughest teams to face, and I believe that’s true. The fanbase and the league alike recognize the team's immense talent. Although the Oilers may not have hit their stride yet, they are poised to find their form as the season progresses. Whether that breakthrough happens this month or by the season’s quarter mark, history has shown that when this team gets going, they can be unstoppable. Criticism will always be there, but fans shouldn’t worry—this team will rise to the occasion.

2) Roster Stability by the Quarter Mark

General Manager Stan Bowman has done a solid job assembling the current roster, but his true test will be solving the team's defensive issues. He is likely working hard behind the scenes, analyzing each game and identifying areas for improvement—whether that’s shoring up the defense or addressing offensive concerns.

Bowman's strength as a GM lies in his ability to sense a team's needs and make the right moves. His ultimate goal will be to fine-tune the roster, making it stronger as the season progresses. Securing the defense by the quarter mark of the season will be key to the Oilers' success, and Bowman will need to make a move sooner rather than later to resolve these lingering concerns.

3) The Oilers Will Be a Winning Team

Let’s be clear: the Edmonton Oilers are no dud. Despite any early-season struggles, this team will win games. The roster is packed with talent, and it's only a matter of time before they click. The X-factor will be how the coaching staff prepares the team to consistently compete at an elite level.

Leadership from the Oilers' star players will also be crucial. Their ability to bring out the best in their teammates and lead by example will determine how quickly the team finds success in tightly contested games.

Fans are eager to see the Oilers' offensive firepower on full display, and that is likely to become one of the most exciting aspects of this season. This team has the talent to entertain, and they will not disappoint the fanbase. Edmonton deserves a second chance to regroup, and when they do, they will show their strength and deliver results.