The Edmonton Oilers have returned to global prominence in the NHL thanks to a star duo featuring Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Under the leadership of new head coach Kris Knoblauch, the team reached the Stanley Cup Final in both 2024 and 2025, and now aims to retain the offensive core that made those deep runs possible.
Losing two straight Finals, especially against the same opponent, is not easy to digest. However, McDavid and the Oilers are confident they can make another run next season. For that to happen, the front office must play its part.
The back-to-back losses to the Panthers have extended Canada’s Stanley Cup drought to 32 years, making this offseason a crucial time to assess what worked well and try to preserve it, in hopes of strengthening the team’s resilience in Alberta.
McDavid’s teammate who could stay in Edmonton
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman said that McDavid’s teammate Kasperi Kapanen could remain with the team. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he stays in Edmonton,” Friedman said. He also added that “there’s a good opportunity” for the Oilers to bring him back, according to his 32 Thoughts podcast.
Kasperi Kapanen of the Edmonton Oilers
Friedman’s report suggests the deal could be a short and affordable contract. Kapanen arrived in Edmonton on November 19, 2024, after being claimed off waivers from the St. Louis Blues, and now his stay could be extended.
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Kapanen’s impact on the Oilers
In his first season with Edmonton, Kapanen played 57 regular-season games, contributing five goals and eight assists. He also tallied three goals and six points over 12 playoff games. His standout moment came when he scored the overtime winner that eliminated the Vegas Golden Knights, sending the Oilers to the Conference Finals.
