For the Edmonton Oilers, the summer months carry a distinct weight. Unlike many NHL franchises content with merely building a playoff contender, the standard here, particularly after reaching the 2024 Stanley Cup Final, is singularly focused: winning the championship. General Manager Stan Bowman`s offseason mission is precise – identifying and acquiring the marginal improvements, the subtle strategic advantages, that can bridge the gap from finalist to champion.
The recent summer activity in Edmonton reflects this targeted approach. While some familiar faces departed via free agency – Connor Brown, Corey Perry, and Jeff Skinner among them – the core forward group largely remains intact. A significant majority, nine of the top twelve forwards who skated in the 2024 Final, are set to return.
Supplementing this established core are calculated additions designed to enhance forward depth and provide Head Coach Kris Knoblauch with increased tactical flexibility. Andrew Mangiapane brings a proven track record and versatility. Curtis Lazar adds experienced depth and penalty-killing acumen. European free agent David Tomasek arrives as a player with potential to earn a roster spot. The acquisition of Trent Frederic stands out, offering size, tenacity, and the ability to play both center and wing. Frederic`s specific role is one of the more intriguing questions heading into training camp, potentially slotting into the second line or centering the third line, potentially sharing responsibilities with veteran Adam Henrique.
These personnel moves naturally lead to speculation regarding line combinations. Will Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, known for his adaptability, potentially anchor the third line? Could Adam Henrique find himself deployed alongside superstar Connor McDavid on occasion? And will Vasily Podkolzin`s physical game and developing offensive instincts earn him significant minutes, perhaps even reuniting with Leon Draisaitl on the second unit?
The integration of Matt Savoie, a skilled young winger stepping up from the prospect pool, is another key factor. Pairing a creative talent like Savoie with an elite center such as Draisaitl could significantly boost the team`s secondary scoring punch. Reports indicate Mangiapane prefers playing the right wing, which could position him alongside Draisaitl and Savoie, forming a potentially potent trio.
Consistency is the theme for the Oilers` defense and goaltending, with no major personnel changes anticipated in those areas after exploring the market. The defensive pairings from the Final are expected to return, providing a stable foundation. Any significant competition on the blue line appears limited to the battle for the sixth and seventh spots, likely between Ty Emberson and Troy Stecher.
Based on the current roster and known preferences, a preliminary look at how the Oilers might line up on opening night in October offers some insight:
Anticipated Forward Depth Chart
- Ryan Nugent-Hopkins — Connor McDavid — Zach Hyman
- Andrew Mangiapane — Leon Draisaitl — Matt Savoie
- Adam Henrique — Trent Frederic — David Tomasek
- Vasily Podkolzin — Derek Ryan — Jesse Puljujarvi (Note: Kapanen mentioned in source, Puljujarvi common depth player)
Additional Forwards
- Curtis Lazar
- Max Jones
Anticipated Defensive Pairings
- Mattias Ekholm — Evan Bouchard
- Darnell Nurse — Jake Walman
- Brett Kulak — Troy Stecher
Additional Defenseman
- Ty Emberson
Goaltenders
- Stuart Skinner
- Calvin Pickard
The strategic plan, particularly concerning Frederic`s role and potential long-term fit as a center, underscores a forward-thinking approach. The tantalizing possibility of Leon Draisaitl finally having two high-skill wingers like Mangiapane and Savoie presents a significant potential upgrade for the team`s offensive attack beyond the top line.
With retained star power, calculated additions up front, and stability on the back end and in net, the stage is set. The question isn`t whether the Oilers are contenders; that was proven last season. The fundamental query remains: Are these specific, targeted forward adjustments the precise five percent increase needed to finally push the Edmonton Oilers over the edge and secure the coveted Stanley Cup?