Since taking over as head coach of the Edmonton Oilers in November 2023, Kris Knoblauch has prioritized calm leadership and the building of strong relationships within the locker room led by Connor McDavid.
Knoblauch’s experience coaching young players at various levels has laid the foundation for a culture of trust and clear communication with prospects who are beginning to shine under the spotlight. While McDavid remains in the headlines due to his contract situation, Edmonton may find answers within its own roster.
The Oilers’ strong run last season highlighted the coach’s ability to steady the ship while McDavid continued to lead on the ice. Now, following a long injury layoff, young defenseman Beau Akey is asking for a shot in the big leagues.
The message Knoblauch received
“I’m 100 percent now,” Akey said during the Oilers’ development camp, according to NHL.com. “I’m looking to make the jump to pro hockey (this season), so I want to show that to the Oilers in training camp,” he said.
Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers warms up before playing the Florida Panthers in Game Three of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena on June 09, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida.
“I want to give it everything to try to make the Oilers and prove to them that I can be part of an NHL roster,” Akey added, who could still see time in the AHL. Despite Knoblauch’s plans, the Oilers’ homegrown prospect has made his expectations clear.
see also
NHL News: Connor McDavid reportedly has a key reason to choose between Oilers and Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs
Akey looks fully recovered
Akey was selected in the second round of the 2023 Draft and is now fully recovered from a severe shoulder injury that sidelined him for much of the 2023-24 season. After that setback, the 2024-25 campaign saw him return to the Barrie Colts of the OHL, where he tallied 32 points (6 goals, 26 assists).
