Because the Edmonton Oilers put together for the 2024-25 NHL season, a number of compelling narratives and participant developments stand out. Host Matthew Zator and Oilers author Brian Swane focus on these themes of their preview. They cowl the breakout stars, key storylines, bounce-back gamers, and X-factors.
See the video under for his or her dialog.
Right here’s a breakdown of what to anticipate from the Oilers this season.
The Largest Storyline: Zach Hyman’s Dominance
One of many main storylines for the Oilers this season facilities round Zach Hyman‘s unimaginable kind. Since signing his contract, Hyman has been a powerhouse. He’s scored targets at a tempo that solidifies him as among the finest free-agent signings in latest NHL historical past. His partnership with Connor McDavid drives Edmonton’s offense, making them perennial contenders.
The massive query heading into this season is whether or not Hyman can keep his scoring output and offensive influence because the Oilers purpose for a deep playoff run. Even when his manufacturing dips barely, the worth Edmonton has already gained from him makes his contract appear like a cut price.
Oilers Breakout Star: Former Vancouver Canucks Vasily Podkolzin
When potential breakout stars for the Oilers, Brian Swane highlights Vasily Podkolzin as a participant to look at. Podkolzin, a former first-round decide for the Vancouver Canucks, possesses the abilities and upside to make a big leap this season. He might solidify a spot within the lineup with a defense-first strategy and provide much-needed depth to the Oilers’ forwards.
There aren’t many younger skills left in Edmonton who haven’t already damaged out, however Podkolzin represents a participant with untapped potential. His growth could possibly be essential in balancing Edmonton’s high-octane offense with improved protection.
Oilers Bounce-Again Candidate: Darnell Nurse
Darnell Nurse wants a bounce-back season after a brutal 2023-24 marketing campaign. Since signing his final contract, Nurse has struggled to fulfill the expectations that include a $9 million annual wage. His play final season wasn’t as much as the extent of a top-pairing defenseman, particularly given his staff chief position.
This season, Nurse should return to his kind from when he was thought of a rising star a number of years in the past. His defensive play and talent to steer from the again finish shall be pivotal if the Oilers need to tighten their protection and contend for the Stanley Cup.
Oilers X-Issue: The Defensive Core
The Oilers’ protection stays the staff’s greatest query mark. Whereas the offense is loaded with expertise, the blue line remains to be a piece in progress. Swane factors out that Edmonton’s success this season might come right down to the truth that defensemen have stepped up. Whether or not it’s Broberg, Nurse, or different gamers like Evan Bouchard, the Oilers want consistency and reliability on the again finish.
If the protection can maintain its personal, the Oilers can have a official shot at going deep within the playoffs. Nevertheless, if the blueline falters, the staff’s Cup aspirations could possibly be in jeopardy.
The Backside Line for the 2024-25 Season
Because the Oilers embark on the 2024-25 season, their success hinges on balancing their elite offense with improved protection. That stated, it stays to be seen whether or not the Oilers could make the required strides. Nevertheless, there’s a whole common season to see how these key storylines unfold.
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