Articles / Oilers depth chart: Is shuffle up front enough to push them over the edge?

Oilers depth chart: Is shuffle up front enough to push them over the edge?

S
Sportsnet
Jul 7, 2025 3:03 PM

Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by Sportsnet. Read the full original article here →

The Edmonton Oilers are undergoing a significant transformation as they look to bolster their depth chart heading into the crucial stretch of the NHL season. With Connor McDavid leading the charge, the team's management is keen to ensure that they have the right pieces in place to propel them toward the playoffs. Recent trades and roster adjustments have sparked conversations about whether this newfound depth can elevate the Oilers from contenders to championship favorites.

Key players like Leon Draisaitl and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins have remained focal points in Edmonton’s strategy, showcasing their offensive prowess. The front office's recent focus on strengthening their supporting cast is a clear indication of their ambitions. As they shuffle their lines and test different combinations, the hope is to discover a winning formula that maximizes the talents of their superstars while providing the necessary support from the secondary scoring.

However, the pressure to deliver results weighs heavily on the Oilers as they attempt to build consistency throughout their lineup. In the competitive Western Conference, teams like the Colorado Avalanche and Calgary Flames are also making strides to improve their own rosters, adding additional scrutiny to the Oilers' strategic decisions. Fans are eager to see if the Oilers' depth chart adjustments will be enough to push them over the edge this season, leading to a long-awaited playoff run.

Ultimately, the Edmonton Oilers remain a team full of potential, but translating that into success remains the ultimate challenge. The hockey world is watching closely as they continue to adapt and evolve with the ever-changing dynamics of the NHL.