February 25, 2025
01jjje6a4c2rxtxn00v0

 


The Edmonton Oilers’ Recent Surge in Five-on-Five Scoring: A Positive Development

In the high-octane world of the NHL, teams are constantly striving for balance between their special teams, offensive production, and defensive prowess. The Edmonton Oilers, for the longest time, have been defined by their remarkable power-play unit and the explosive offensive abilities of their stars, particularly Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. However, the narrative surrounding the team over the past few seasons has slowly shifted. One of the most significant developments in recent months is the Oilers’ surge in five-on-five scoring — a shift that could not only redefine the team’s overall performance but also improve its standing in the ever-competitive Western Conference.

This shift represents more than just a series of strong individual performances or a mere fluctuation in their scoring trends. It is a sign of a more complete and sustainable game, one that could ultimately propel the Oilers deeper into the playoffs and beyond. In this piece, we will break down the factors driving this surge, the positive implications it carries for the team’s future, and why it’s an encouraging sign for Oilers fans and management alike.

A Contextual Look at the Oilers’ Historical Struggles

To understand the significance of the Oilers’ recent improvements in five-on-five scoring, it’s important to first examine the team’s history. Edmonton has long been reliant on the league’s most dangerous power play, which has been powered by McDavid, Draisaitl, and a highly efficient supporting cast. Their power play regularly ranks among the best in the league, but for a team with Stanley Cup aspirations, relying solely on the man advantage is not enough.

Historically, the Oilers have struggled to generate consistent offense at even strength. This imbalance has often been highlighted as one of the key weaknesses in their playoff runs. While their special teams would often carry them through regular-season games, once the intensity of postseason hockey took over — with tighter checking, fewer penalties, and more disciplined play — their five-on-five performance would often falter, diminishing their chances of advancing past the first couple of rounds.

The inability to generate sustained offense at even strength has been a particularly glaring issue for a team with aspirations of competing for a Cup. As good as McDavid and Draisaitl are, they are often tasked with generating offense not only on the power play but also against defensive systems that tighten up at even strength. This leaves the Oilers in a precarious position: they are forced to rely on two of the best players in the world to shoulder the entire offensive load.

Identifying the Surge: What’s Changed?

So, what’s behind the Oilers’ recent five-on-five surge? A combination of factors is at play, ranging from individual improvements to tactical adjustments. Let’s break down the key elements that have contributed to this positive trend.

1. Depth Scoring

One of the most significant differences this season has been the emergence of scoring depth beyond McDavid and Draisaitl. In previous seasons, the Oilers often struggled to generate consistent offense when their star duo was off the ice or held in check by opposing teams. However, this season, there has been a noticeable increase in contributions from secondary players, such as Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Zach Hyman, Evander Kane, and others.

This deeper scoring has given the Oilers a more balanced attack, meaning they are no longer relying solely on McDavid and Draisaitl to carry the offensive load. For example, Hyman’s ability to create offense with linemates like Nugent-Hopkins and new additions to the lineup has resulted in more production at even strength, which takes pressure off the team’s top duo. Moreover, the Oilers’ bottom six has been more engaged in offensive zone time, contributing with timely goals and the ability to cycle the puck effectively.

2. Improved Line Combinations and Chemistry

Head coach Jay Woodcroft deserves credit for optimizing the line combinations and improving the chemistry between players. For years, the Oilers had juggled their forward lines and often resorted to mixing McDavid and Draisaitl together in an attempt to force offensive production. This season, however, the Oilers have embraced more consistent line pairings, with the result being better flow and more scoring chances at even strength.

The key to this chemistry has been the formation of lines that cater to each player’s strengths. McDavid, for example, has continued to shine with his speed and creativity, but his line now features complementary players who can finish plays and contribute to the offensive zone time. Draisaitl has benefitted from this approach as well, with strong two-way players surrounding him to create balance and mitigate defensive responsibilities. Players like Nugent-Hopkins and Hyman — who have the defensive acumen to allow the stars to focus on offense — have been key to this chemistry.

Additionally, the Oilers’ blue line has become more active in pushing the puck up the ice, allowing Edmonton to control possession more effectively. Players like Evan Bouchard and Cody Ceci have taken on bigger roles, and their ability to make smart plays in transition has kept the Oilers offensive game rolling even when the team isn’t on the power play.

3. Systemic Adjustments: Playing More Structured Hockey

Another factor contributing to the Oilers’ recent success is their evolving system. Under Woodcroft’s tutelage, the team has started playing a more structured brand of hockey, not relying solely on the individual brilliance of McDavid and Draisaitl. The Oilers are playing a more team-oriented game, with all five skaters involved in offensive zone time.

The Oilers’ emphasis on puck possession and creating consistent pressure has allowed them to sustain offensive chances in a more balanced manner. By maintaining better puck control and creating more offensive zone time, the team has been able to wear down opponents and generate higher-quality chances at five-on-five. This approach has not only led to more goals but also helped limit scoring chances for opponents, especially during defensive zone breakouts.

This system change has required patience and a shift in mindset. As Woodcroft has emphasized, the Oilers are looking for more sustainable offense — a departure from their previous reliance on fast breaks and counter-attacks that heavily favored McDavid’s speed and playmaking ability.

4. Goaltending Stability

While the Oilers’ offense has been surging, it’s important not to overlook the contribution of goaltending. Both Stuart Skinner and Jack Campbell have shown flashes of brilliance in the crease this season. Goaltending stability allows the team to focus on creating offense at five-on-five without the pressure of playing catch-up due to defensive breakdowns.

With a consistent presence between the pipes, the Oilers are better equipped to manage the game’s flow, knowing they can rely on their goaltenders to make crucial saves. Skinner, in particular, has proven to be a solid option, earning trust from the coaching staff and giving the team the confidence to push the pace offensively. When goaltending is stable, it allows the offensive players to feel less inclined to take risks in their defensive zone and more focused on pushing the attack.

The Positive Implications: What Does This Mean for the Oilers’ Future?

The Oilers’ surge in five-on-five scoring is a positive development for several reasons, and its significance cannot be overstated. Here are some of the most impactful implications:

1. Playoff Preparedness

A team that can generate offense at even strength is far better prepared for the grind of the playoffs, where power-play opportunities become fewer and harder to come by. As the Oilers have proven in the past, their power play can carry them a long way, but in the postseason, when refereeing tightens and penalties become rarer, having the ability to produce goals at five-on-five is crucial for advancing.

If the Oilers can continue to generate offense at even strength while maintaining their power-play dominance, they will be a formidable contender in any series. The ability to win games without relying too heavily on special teams — and instead generating consistent offense with all four lines — will make them a much more well-rounded team.

2. Competitive Edge in the Western Conference

The Western Conference is loaded with teams that are built to be defensively strong, such as the Colorado Avalanche, Vegas Golden Knights, and Dallas Stars. If the Oilers can continue to build on their five-on-five scoring success, they’ll be able to match up more effectively with these teams, even when the game becomes a low-scoring battle.

In past seasons, the Oilers have sometimes been found wanting against teams that lock down defensively, but now, with a more diversified offensive attack, they have the tools to break through even the most structured defenses.

3. Sustainability of Success

One of the biggest issues for high-scoring teams in the NHL is sustainability. The Oilers’ previous reliance on individual brilliance meant that their success could be erratic. With more players contributing at five-on-five, the team is now less dependent on McDavid and Draisaitl to win games, making their success more sustainable in the long term.

This depth scoring also gives the Oilers more flexibility in how they approach games. They don’t need to rely on a single line to generate offense or press the issue at all costs. As a result, they can adapt their game plan based on the flow of play, keeping opponents guessing.

4. Confidence Boost

Finally, this surge in five-on-five scoring will undoubtedly boost the confidence of the entire team. Players like Hyman, Nugent-Hopkins, and Kane will feel more secure in their roles and ability to contribute. Meanwhile, McDavid and Draisaitl will benefit from having more offensive options around them, reducing the burden of being the sole offensive creators.

This increased confidence will have a ripple effect throughout the entire lineup, from the forwards down to the defensemen. When players are confident, they are more likely to take risks, which, in turn, opens up more opportunities for goals and sustained offensive pressure.