In a stunning turn of events this summer, Stan Bowman took on the role of general manager for the Edmonton Oilers, bringing with him a fresh perspective and a stark warning for fans: change is inevitable.
“It’s natural to look at last year’s team and figure that we need just that one piece,” Bowman cautioned. “You don’t want it to be last year’s team and try to recreate what you had. You have to look into it like there are things that are going to be different, even with the same players.”
Despite the heart-wrenching loss in the Stanley Cup final to the Florida Panthers in Game 7, Bowman stressed the importance of embracing the new season with a new team, rather than clinging to the successes of the past.
Last season’s Oilers were a force to be reckoned with on the ice. Zach Hyman displayed his scoring prowess with an impressive 54 goals in the regular season and 16 in the playoffs. Connor McDavid made history with 100 assists in a season and claimed the Conn Smythe Trophy. Leon Draisaitl solidified his status as a top player in the league, securing a lucrative eight-year contract extension. And young defenseman Evan Bouchard had a breakout season with 82 points.
The Oilers’ special teams were nothing short of exceptional, boasting a power play that operated at an impressive 29.3% in the playoffs and a penalty kill that shut down opposing teams 94.3% of the time.
But as the new season begins, changes are afoot. Power forward Evander Kane underwent surgery in September and is expected to miss a significant portion of the regular season. Draisaitl will be flanked by new wingers, Jeff Skinner and Viktor Arvidsson, on the second line.
“There’s definitely some excitement,” Skinner remarked. “Everyone saw the run they went on last year. I think you’ve got a lot of guys who are hungry to repeat that run, so, I’m just looking to be a part of it and be a piece of the puzzle.”
Skinner, who notched 24 goals for the Buffalo Sabres last season, found himself available after his contract was bought out. Arvidsson, on the other hand, battled injuries during his time with the Los Angeles Kings but showed promise in the previous season with 26 goals and 33 assists.
As the Oilers set their sights on a new season, one thing is clear: change is inevitable, but the pursuit of greatness remains unwavering.
