Where Do The Oilers Go From Here?

By : Mike Rifkin

The Edmonton Oilers were swept in the Western Conference Finals by the Colorado Avalanche, losing 6-5 in overtime in game four. For the Oilers it was their first Western Conference Finals since 2006, where they defeated the Anaheim Ducks in five games before losing to the Carolina Hurricanes in seven games in the Stanley Cup Finals. 

The Oilers led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl both were in the top five in scoring during the regular season, including McDavid winning his second consecutive Art Ross Trophy and fourth overall. McDavid and Draisaitl combined for 55 points in 32 games played. What makes it even more impressive was Draisaitl was playing with a high ankle sprain according to General Manager Ken Holland, the injury occurred during the first round against the Kings. 

Ken Holland also said on head coach Jay Woodcroft “I think he did a fabulous job, the team responded to him and I told him we would meet early next week and have a discussion. I am interested in bringing him back, I think he did a great job and was a big part of what the team accomplished.” Woodcroft went 26-9-3 after being promoted from Bakersfield after Dave Tippett was fired. I don’t know why Woodcroft wouldn’t want to come back, but if he doesn’t there are a lot of big name coaches the Oilers could look at on the open market. But I would expect Woodcroft back

Another return in question for the Oilers is Evander Kane. Kane who was released by the Sharks, was picked up by the Oilers for one million dollars. Kane once he arrived in Edmonton was a points machine picking up 39 points (22 goals) in 43 games during the regular season and 17 points (13 goals) in 15 playoff games. Kane has always been a goal scorer but his numbers definitely increased by playing with McDavid. Holland said of Kane “I don’t expect him to play on a two million dollar cap hit next season.” Kane plays with an edge and it cost him in the Western Conference Finals. During the first period of game three Kane hit Avalanche Center Nazem Kadri from behind and got a 5 minute major penalty and was then suspended for game four. Something to watch with Kane whether it is the Oilers or another team I would give him a lesser term deal, probably nothing over three years. 

The other position the Oilers NEED to upgrade is their goaltending. They cannot go into another season with Mike Smith and Mikko Koskinen as their goalies. Smith is signed for next year at 2.2 million dollars at 40 years old and Koskinen is a free agent. Smith during the playoffs had a 3.37 Goals Against Average and .913 save percentage. Against Colorado during the Western Conference Finals Smith posted a 5.53 GAA and a .872 save percentage. Whether it’s a trade or free agency the Oilers need to address the goalie position.