Edmonton Oilers Eager to Reclaim Glory in Upcoming NHL Season

The Edmonton Oilers, led by star players Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, are on a mission to overcome the heartbreak of last season’s narrow defeat in the Stanley Cup final against the Florida Panthers. Despite erasing a 3-0 series deficit, the Oilers fell just short, losing by a mere goal in Game 7. McDavid expressed the lasting impact of the loss, stating, “I’m not sure it’s something that you ever get over, really.”

Determined not to dwell on past disappointments, the Oilers are refocusing their efforts on claiming the coveted championship that has eluded them for years. Draisaitl, who recently signed an eight-year, $112 million contract extension, emphasized the team’s commitment, saying, “We’re going to do this together.”

As the 2024-25 NHL season approaches, the Oilers are considered the league’s title favorites, according to BetMGM Sportsbook, with odds of 8-1. Their season opener will be against the Winnipeg Jets at home in Edmonton on Wednesday.

Executive changes have seen Stan Bowman take over from Ken Holland to steer the team’s hockey operations. Bowman’s major offseason achievement was securing Draisaitl’s long-term contract, despite the challenges of navigating the league’s salary cap. Bowman stated, “It’s our job to try to surround him with the best players we can and give our team the best chance to win.”

The oilers retained core players like Corey Perry and added experienced forwards such as Viktor Arvidsson and Jeff Skinner. However, they also faced the departure of young talents Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway to the St. Louis Blues.

Despite changes to the roster, a sense of optimism surrounds the Oilers’ camp. Draisaitl reflected on the lessons learned from their previous playoff run, expressing hope that, like the Florida Panthers last season, they can lose in the final one year and win it the next.

Predictions from various NHL writers and broadcasters have largely favored the Oilers, with 48% of them choosing Edmonton as the 2025 Stanley Cup winners. However, contenders like the Dallas Stars also have strong support, with many experts highlighting their deep roster and strategic gameplay.

Chris Bengel from CBS Sports noted, “This time around, the Oilers will get the job done,” while Darren Dreger from TSN remarked on the “destiny” surrounding McDavid and the Oilers.

As the season unfolds, the pressure will be on the Oilers to capitalize on their momentum and experience from last year’s campaign. McDavid and Draisaitl, among hockey’s elite, are keen to let their performances speak for themselves as they strive to end a 32-year championship drought for the team.