Articles / Oilers’ 1995 Draft Class: One of the Worst in Franchise History

Oilers’ 1995 Draft Class: One of the Worst in Franchise History

T
The Hockey Writers
Jun 28, 2025 6:45 PM

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The 1995 NHL Draft is often remembered by Edmonton Oilers fans as a low point in the franchise's history. Despite holding several early-round selections, the Oilers struggled to capitalize on the opportunities presented to them. Among the players they drafted was a standout center, but ultimately, the class failed to meet expectations. This disappointing outcome stands in stark contrast to the team’s usual success in identifying and developing talent.

One of the highest selections was spent on a skilled winger who showed promise but never quite found his footing in the NHL. The Oilers had high hopes for him, yet his tenure with the team was marked by mediocrity, leading to an eventual trade. This move is often cited as a pivotal mistake within the context of the Oilers' draft history.

While some names from this draft have made a small impact in the league, they did not possess the star quality that fans had anticipated. The missed opportunities in 1995 became emblematic of the team’s struggles through the late 1990s, leaving a lingering regret among supporters. As the Oilers looked back on this draft, it served as a stark reminder of the importance of scouting and player development.