Leon Draisaitl did not hold back in his final media availability of the season, stating unequivocally that the Edmonton Oilers have regressed after being eliminated in the first round of the NHL playoffs. Speaking on Saturday, the star forward expressed deep concern about the franchise's direction following back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances.
"Yes, I am concerned about that," Draisaitl said. "I am concerned because we are not trending in the right direction. We've taken big steps backward. We have to get a grip of this and head back in the right direction."
The Oilers finished the regular season with 93 points, winning only two games in a row twice, and were ousted in the first round. This marks a sharp decline from the previous two seasons, when they reached the Stanley Cup Final. Draisaitl's comments come amid growing frustration within the team's leadership core.
McDavid's Patience 'Wearing Thin'
Captain Connor McDavid also voiced his displeasure, saying his patience is "wearing thin." The duo, considered the best players the franchise has had since the dynasty years, are now openly questioning whether the Oilers can win a championship.
"In what world do you have the best player in the world on your team and you're not looking to win?" Draisaitl asked. "I know we're looking to win, but we need to be better. We have to be better. There is no way around it. We have to improve."
Draisaitl pointed out that McDavid has only two years remaining on his contract. "God knows where that goes," he added. "As of right now we have two years, we have to get significantly better."
GM Tries to Calm Concerns
General Manager Stan Bowman attempted to provide a more measured perspective, acknowledging the disappointment but emphasizing the team's commitment to improving. However, the candid remarks from the team's stars have raised alarms about the Oilers' ability to contend for a Stanley Cup in the near future.
The Oilers now face a critical offseason with limited salary-cap space and trade assets, making it difficult to address roster deficiencies. The pressure is mounting on management to make significant changes before the window with McDavid and Draisaitl closes.
