Oilers Hope Coffey Can Stabilize Defensive Struggles

The Edmonton Oilers have brought back franchise legend Paul Coffey as an assistant coach to oversee the team’s defense. Coffey previously held the same role from 2023 until the end of last season.

However, the move wasn’t without its detractors. According to insider David Pagnotta, speaking on the Hello Hockey podcast in Edmonton, the decision to re-hire Coffey has been met with resistance within the Oilers organization.

The change hasn’t been welcomed with open arms by a lot of people in the organization, I don’t think everyone’s overly thrilled about it, quite frankly, I don’t think Coff’s overly thrilled about going back behind the bench again… It’s confusing to me. David Pagnotta

The Oilers’ defensive struggles have been glaring. Prior to the Olympic break, the team conceded 34 goals in their last seven games, averaging 4.86 goals against per game. They have surrendered 194 goals this season, more than all but three other teams in the NHL.

Unexpected Return Raises Questions

The re-hiring of Coffey was reportedly unexpected. Pagnotta noted that prior to the Olympic break, sources within the team denied any discussions were taking place regarding Coffey’s return. Something changed. What changed, I don’t understand. he stated.

Despite sitting just four points out of first place in the Pacific Division, the Oilers’ record of 64 points would leave them five points outside of a playoff berth in the Eastern Conference.

While Pagnotta believes Coffey’s presence will offer some improvement to the defensive corps, he questions whether it will be enough to address the team’s deeper issues. Do I think Paul Coffey behind the bench will help upgrade the overall D-corps? Yeah. To an extent. But is it enough? No… I maintain that they still need to address the roster itself.

FAQ

• Who is Paul Coffey? Paul Coffey is a franchise legend and former assistant coach for the Edmonton Oilers.
• Why was Coffey rehired? Coffey was rehired to address the Oilers’ defensive struggles.
• Is everyone happy about Coffey’s return? No, reports indicate there is discontent within the organization regarding the decision.