The Edmonton Oilers possess an offensive firepower that few teams can match, making a return trip to the Stanley Cup Final a distinct possibility. However, a seasoned analyst points to a single, crucial aspect of their game that remains a significant question mark as the team eyes hockey's ultimate prize.
Defensive Concerns Loom Large
While there is little doubt the team can score goals in abundance, the ability to prevent them consistently is the jury that is still out. This defensive uncertainty forms the core of a broader analysis, which includes nine key observations about the team's current state and future.
Injuries and Roster Decisions
The Oilers are navigating several injury and personnel challenges. Young forward Connor Clattenburg is expected to miss some time due to injuries sustained from his aggressive style of play. The team is also feeling the absence of veteran Adam Henrique, whose defensive intelligence and faceoff prowess are missed, particularly on the penalty kill.
In the crease, the situation is pivotal. The true identity of this Oilers squad won't be clear until starting goaltender Tristan Jarry returns to the lineup, which is anticipated this week. The analysis suggests management must find a way to protect backup Calvin Pickard from waivers, citing his importance given Jarry's injury history and fellow goalie Connor Ingram's need to manage his mental well-being.
Trade Rumors and Contract Talks
Rumors are circulating that the Vancouver Canucks have inquired about forward Evander Kane. While the Oilers could use a player with his profile, the indication from within the organization is that the window for a Kane deal has closed.
On the contract front, there is a prediction that Jack Roslovic will sign an extension with Edmonton before the season concludes. The argument is that waiting for a larger sample size from the playoffs could inflate his price on the open market, where he might command $6 million. Securing him now could cost a more team-friendly $4-5 million annually.
Playoff Roster Projections
The analysis casts a critical eye on the team's youthful defense corps. It forecasts that only one of the three young defensemen—Spencer Stastney, Alec Regula, or Ty Emberson—will be a nightly playoff starter. The reasoning is that winning a championship is difficult with more than one inexperienced player regularly on the blue line. While all three have promise, Emberson is noted as potentially being the most NHL-ready of the group.
McDavid at the Peak of His Powers
Amid the concerns, one element is operating at a historic level: Connor McDavid. The captain has set a new personal best with an 18-game point streak, amassing 42 points during that run. He extended the streak with a power-play goal in a 3-3 tie against the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Observers note that his attacking play in the current regular season is arguably the best they've ever seen from him, surpassed only by his legendary performances in recent Stanley Cup Playoffs, particularly the 2023-24 campaign.
Ultimately, the Oilers' path to the Stanley Cup appears clear in one regard but shrouded in doubt in another. Their destiny may hinge entirely on solidifying the defensive side of their game to match the unparalleled offensive excellence led by Connor McDavid.
