As the Edmonton Oilers have struggled so far in the 2024-25 NHL season, some recent adjustments to their power-play units have sparked debate. New combinations emerging at practice feature Viktor Arvidsson and Jeff Skinner on the top unit, with Evan Bouchard and Mattias Ekholm rotating on defense. Meanwhile, players like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Zach Hyman have shifted to the second unit. While this might surprise some people, these changes are far from random, they’re a calculated attempt to evolve and diversify one of the NHL’s most dangerous power plays.
The Oilers’ Power Play Is Evolving
The Oilers' power play has been dominant in recent seasons, largely due to the exceptional skill and chemistry of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. However, in the NHL, standing still is never an option. When a team relies too heavily on a single formula, opposing teams eventually find ways to neutralize it. By experimenting with new combinations, Edmonton is avoiding predictability and ensuring their power play remains a step ahead of opposing penalty kills.
Arvidsson’s inclusion in the top unit, for example, adds a new dynamic to the Oilers’ attack. His aggressive forechecking and puck-handling abilities bring a fresh approach, complementing the finesse and speed McDavid and Draisaitl have built their reputations on. Incorporating players with different skill sets makes the power play more versatile and less predictable.
Jeff Skinner’s addition in the top unit, add a different aspect as well. Skinner is known for his quick release and nose for the net, which could complement McDavid and Draisaitl’s ability to create space and dish the puck. Incorporating a player with Skinner's scoring touch makes the power play more versatile and difficult to defend.
Flexibility with Bouchard and Ekholm
One of the more intriguing elements of this experimentation is the rotation of Evan Bouchard and Mattias Ekholm on the point. With Bouchard, the Oilers benefit from a right-handed shot, while Ekholm provides a left-handed option. This subtle shift could significantly change the way Edmonton’s power play runs.
With Bouchard, the Oilers can set up more one-timer opportunities from the right side, which could open up lanes for McDavid and Draisaitl to create more scoring chances. On the other hand, Ekholm’s left-handed shot introduces the option of a different angle for quick passes and shots. This alternating dynamic adds a layer of unpredictability, as opposing penalty killers will have to adjust to different setups depending on which defenseman is on the ice.
This variety in shooting angles keeps opponents guessing and could lead to better puck movement, creating more space for the Oilers' high-skill forwards to operate. In short, it’s not just about personnel changes but about leveraging those changes to generate different looks and challenges for the opposition.
The Tweaks Aren’t a Sign of Panic
These powerplay changes shouldn’t be viewed as a sign of panic. On the contrary, they show Edmonton’s willingness to evolve and adapt, ensuring that their power play remains at the top of the league. Successful teams don’t wait until problems arise to make adjustments. They innovate early to stay ahead of the curve. The Oilers are not reacting to a crisis, they’re preemptively improving their system.
For McDavid and Draisaitl, this experimentation could unlock even more scoring opportunities. By adding fresh elements like Arvidsson’s tenacity and maintaining strong contributors like Nugent-Hopkins and Hyman on the second unit, the Oilers are building a more complex and adaptable powerplay system. This diversification will only make them more difficult to defend as the season progresses.
The Edmonton Oilers’ recent power-play adjustments should be seen as a sign of growth and strategic foresight. In a league where standing still can lead to stagnation, the Oilers are wisely evolving to ensure they remain a formidable offensive threat. With McDavid, Draisaitl, and a mix of fresh talent leading the charge, these changes will keep the Oilers’ power play unpredictable, versatile, and likely as dangerous as ever.