As the Edmonton Oilers gear up for the upcoming NHL season, roster decisions are heating up, alongside growing speculation surrounding superstar Connor McDavid's future with the team. The Oilers recently made significant cuts, assigning five players, including defencemen Atro Leppanen and forwards Quinn Hutson and Josh Samanski, to their AHL affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors. In a bid to streamline their roster, they also placed defencemen Cam Dineen and Riley Stillman on waivers.
In the spotlight, McDavid, the NHL's highest-paid player, is entering the final season of his contract, prompting discussions about his long-term commitment to the Oilers. Reports suggest that while he has yet to sign an extension, he remains focused on building a winning culture in Edmonton, hinting that his decisions may transcend financial motivations. Insiders believe McDavid is contemplating the best way to position the team for a Stanley Cup run.
The Oilers also faced the Seattle Kraken in a preseason matchup, where they fell short with a 4-2 loss. Notably, rookie Matt Savoie showcased his potential during a penalty kill, highlighting the talent the Oilers are grooming ahead of the regular season. Coach Kris Knoblauch praised Savoie for his defensive awareness and offensive skills, indicating he may soon secure a regular spot on the roster.
As the Oilers navigate these decisions, the stakes are undeniably high. With McDavid's contract looming and a roster teeming with young talent, Edmonton hopes to capitalize on this season to finally break their championship drought that stretches back to 1990. The coming weeks will be crucial as they finalize their roster and seek to harness the momentum required for a successful campaign.