Oilers Face Playoff Push with Key Players Underperforming
Edmonton, AB – The Edmonton Oilers are in a critical stretch as they battle for a playoff spot, but face challenges with several key players struggling to meet expectations. Even as stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are currently sidelined with injuries – Draisaitl expected to return within a week, McDavid’s timeline longer – the team’s overall performance has been hampered by underproduction from players like Jake Walman, Darnell Nurse, Tristan Jarry, and Trent Frederic.
The Oilers currently sit third in the Pacific Division, only four points from falling out of playoff contention. The team’s success hinges on improvements across the board, with head coach Kris Knoblauch and players acknowledging the need for a collective effort to turn the season around. The team traded for Jarry in an attempt to fix their goaltending issues, but he has struggled since arriving in Edmonton. Several players are dealing with lingering injuries that may be impacting their play, and the team is exploring potential trade options to address roster imbalances before the deadline.
Oilers’ Playoff Push Hinges on Supporting Cast’s Revival
The Edmonton Oilers identify themselves in a precarious position as the playoff race intensifies, sitting third in the Pacific Division but only four points ahead of the playoff cut-off line. HockeyStats’ analytics model currently gives them a 60 percent chance of making the postseason, a favorable but far from guaranteed outcome.
Core Players Performing, But Depth is a Concern
Fortunately, Edmonton’s star power – Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Zach Hyman, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Evan Bouchard – has largely delivered. However, a significant issue has emerged: the Oilers are being significantly outscored 61-32 when McDavid and Draisaitl are off the ice.
Jake Walman’s Struggles and Potential Solutions
Jake Walman, who made an immediate impact after joining the Oilers last year, has experienced a downturn this season. Initially stepping up in the absence of Ekholm, Walman excelled in a top-pairing role, posting a plus-five rating at 5-on-5 and a 55 percent expected goal share.
This season, however, has been different. A bone bruise sidelined him for nearly two months, and upon his return, his performance has dipped. Currently, the Oilers are being outscored 31-22 with Walman on the ice at 5-on-5, and his expected goal share has fallen to 44 percent.
Playing on his offside, a consequence of the Oilers’ left-handed defensive depth, is contributing to these struggles. His puck-moving ability, a key strength, is compromised when forced to make plays on his backhand, leading to turnovers and missed transitions.
Pro Tip: Addressing the Oilers’ defensive handedness imbalance by adding a right-shot defenseman before the trade deadline could unlock Walman’s potential and improve the team’s overall defensive structure.
Darnell Nurse Facing Critical Scrutiny
Darnell Nurse is experiencing one of his most challenging seasons to date. His play-driving and outscoring numbers are at their lowest since the 2018-19 season, raising concerns about his overall impact.
Despite the presence of a reliable top pairing with Matias Ekholm and Evan Bouchard, the Oilers have struggled to find a consistent partner for Nurse. Troy Stecher showed some chemistry last season, but was waived earlier this season.
Finding a suitable right-handed partner for Nurse could be crucial. A more balanced defensive core, with players on their natural sides, could significantly improve the team’s performance.
Tristan Jarry’s Inconsistent Performance
The Oilers traded for Tristan Jarry hoping to resolve their goaltending inconsistencies. While Jarry started strong with the Penguins, posting a .909 save percentage, and 7.6 goals saved above expected, his performance has declined since joining Edmonton.
Currently, Jarry has a .864 save percentage and -5.6 goals saved above expected with the Oilers. The team’s defensive struggles in front of him are contributing to the issue, as they are conceding more scoring chances.
Improving the penalty kill, where Jarry’s save percentage is a concerning .766, is also essential. The return of Adam Henrique from injury and potential tactical adjustments could help address these issues.
Trent Frederic’s Prolonged Slump
Trent Frederic, signed to an eight-year extension despite a down season, has continued to struggle. He is currently on a 27-game pointless streak, with only three points in 56 games.
A lingering high-ankle sprain may be impacting his performance, as it has affected his speed and puck retrieval abilities. The Oilers are hoping Frederic can rediscover his form, similar to Connor Brown’s recovery from an ACL tear last season.
Collective Improvement is Key
Leon Draisaitl recently emphasized the need for collective improvement, stating that everyone, from coaches to players, needs to elevate their game. The Oilers’ playoff hopes depend on a team-wide effort to address their shortcomings and consistently perform at a higher level.
FAQ
Q: What is the Oilers’ current playoff outlook?
A: The Oilers have a 60% chance of making the playoffs, but their position is precarious, sitting only four points ahead of the playoff cut-off line.
Q: What are the main issues facing the Oilers?
A: The Oilers’ struggles stem from inconsistent performance from supporting players, defensive imbalances, and goaltending inconsistencies.
Q: What steps can the Oilers take to improve?
A: Adding a right-shot defenseman, improving the penalty kill, and getting key players like Walman and Frederic back to form are crucial steps.
Did you recognize? Connor McDavid secured his ninth 100-point season in a recent 8-1 rout of the Los Angeles Kings on February 27, 2026.
Stay tuned to 247sports.new for the latest updates on the Edmonton Oilers’ playoff push.