Edmonton Oilers Summary

The Edmonton Oilers are currently evaluating their defensive strategy as they prepare for the upcoming season. With ten defensemen who played NHL games last season, the focus is on how D.J. Smith will deploy them effectively, which is crucial for the team’s success.

According to Oilers Nation, the top five defensemen are identified as Evan Bouchard, Mattias Ekholm, Jake Walman, Connor Murphy, and Ryan Shea. Bouchard is expected to be the top-pair right defenseman and will run the power play, while Murphy is anticipated to anchor the first penalty kill unit.

The rest of the defense corps remains uncertain, particularly how Smith will utilize Ekholm, Walman, and Shea. In terms of roster moves, the Oilers are sitting with close to $6 million in cap space and are looking to add a top-six winger.

The free agent market is limited, with players like Anthony Mantha and Patrick Kane being considered. However, potential trades may be the most viable option for the Oilers to enhance their scoring capabilities.

This offseason has also sparked reflections on the team's history, notably the Chris Pronger trade from 2006, which had a lasting impact on the franchise. As the Oilers approach the 2026 preseason, there are changes on the horizon with a new goaltending trio and a modified preseason schedule, which is expected to provide fresh opportunities as they prepare for the regular season ahead.

According to Oil on Whyte, the preseason will be shortened to four games, with notable matchups against divisional rivals like the Winnipeg Jets and Calgary Flames.