4 ways the Edmonton Oilers can manage without Connor McDavid

The Edmonton Oilers have hit a rough patch with the injury of their captain, Connor McDavid, sidelining him for the next 2-3 weeks. His absence leaves a noticeable void, but the Oilers are already showing they can rise to the occasion. In their first game without McDavid, they delivered a convincing 5-1 win over the Nashville Predators, signalling the potential for a strong stretch even in his absence. However, with many games left, they’ll need to sustain this level of play if they want to weather this challenge effectively.

In McDavid’s absence, Leon Draisaitl stands as the natural choice to take the reins. Draisaitl is a proven leader and playmaker who can rally the team, especially with Zach Hyman on his wing. Hyman, currently facing a scoring drought, could benefit from the chance to step up, focusing on his playmaking abilities and contributing to a dynamic offense. Additionally, shifting Ryan Nugent-Hopkins to center the second line, with Jeff Skinner and Victor Arvidsson as wingers, would complement their respective play styles, balancing the lines and maximizing depth.

1) Taking Charge of Center Ice During the Forecheck

McDavid’s speed and agility often allow him to dominate the center ice and press the forecheck. In his absence, Draisaitl can adapt by taking similar control, pushing through the center to create offensive opportunities. Playing alongside Hyman, Draisaitl’s strength and positioning skills will allow him to command the neutral zone and create confusion for opponents. Whoever steps up as the third member of this line will need to match their tempo and add a fresh edge, potentially bringing a spark that could elevate the Oilers' offense.

2) Outplaying Opponents by Creating Turnovers

One of the keys to the Oilers’ success last season was their ability to force turnovers in the neutral and offensive zones, transforming these moments into scoring opportunities. To get back on track, the Oilers need to establish consistency in creating turnovers, which will also help build confidence without McDavid’s influence. Focusing on this area will allow the Oilers to capitalize on opponent mistakes, maintain puck possession, and dictate the pace of the game. Reclaiming this "X-factor" in their gameplay could lead to the winning streak they need to restore momentum.

3) Emphasizing Playmaking Skills to Generate Scoring Opportunities

With McDavid out, the Oilers will need to rely more on collective playmaking to generate quality scoring chances. By focusing on setting each other up, rather than individual scoring attempts, players can create high-danger opportunities around the net. A selfless approach to passing and playmaking will benefit the Oilers by bolstering their plus/minus differential and adding versatility to their offensive structure. Players need to trust each other’s abilities to create opportunities, which could also help improve their chemistry and translate into a more potent scoring attack.

4) Strengthening Their Presence in the Defensive Zone

With McDavid’s offense absent, the Oilers’ defensive effort becomes even more crucial. Strong defensive play can stabilize the team, providing a foundation from which they can build. Aggressive play along the boards, consistent net coverage, and support for the goaltenders are essential. By playing defensively sound, the Oilers can disrupt their opponents’ flow and control the pace of play. This added defensive resilience can help them turn the corner, creating the backbone they need to compete with tougher opponents.

McDavid’s injury will undoubtedly challenge the Oilers, but it also represents a chance to adapt and grow. While they showed promise in their first game without him by defeating the Predators, they’ll need to keep up that intensity for the weeks ahead. This team has shown resilience in the past, and with the right adjustments, they can demonstrate the depth and skill that make them contenders. As McDavid heals, the Oilers have the pieces to keep themselves competitive, reinforce their chemistry, and prove they’re a complete team, capable of standing strong without relying on any single player.

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