Core group of Oilers back in action before training camp

With training camp set to begin in two-weeks, Oilers' players are getting a head start, eager to begin the process of winning a Stanley Cup. And it all starts with getting yourself ready to compete.

Dubbed 'Captain Skates', McDavid organized the skate at the Downtown Community Rink in Rogers Place, which was attended by Leon Draisaitl, Nurse, Ekholm, newcomer Andrew Mangiapane, Frederic, and Calvin Pickard, as reported by accredited Oilers reporter Preston Hodgkinson.

Not to be outdone, Matthew Savoie laced-up his skates too, as did Alec Regula, Noah Philip, David Tomasek, and Max Jones. Seeing the Oilers' newcomers take to the voluntary skate is encouraging, and will no doubt be noted by the coaching staff.

Noticeably absent from the 1st skate at Rogers Place this year were Ike Howard, Curtis Lazar, Josh Samanski, and Atro Leppanen, though it wont be long before we see them in an Oilers' jersey for the first time.

The undercurrent to this news, of course, is Connor McDavid's contract extension, which to date remains unsigned by the Captain. Reports have indicated that he will likely begin 2025-26 playing under his current contract, which expires July 1, 2026, following which he becomes a UFA.

Still, it's encouraging to see the boys taking to the ice and having fun doing what they love. Once camp gets going officially in mid-September, the atmosphere will be more combative, as players compete for a limited number of available roster spots.

In the meantime, stay tuned for updates concerning Connor McDavid and training camp; it won't be too much longer.