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Oilers' roster problems continue to compound in 2025-26 season
Photo credit: USA Today Sports
Analyst Frank Seravalli reports that the Oilers need to get younger in order to make their annual salary cap work, and with Connor McDavid's impending high-value contract extension, signing young players to entry-level deals in now even more critical.
It's no secret that the Oilers' are experiencing a cap-crunch this year, and with Leon Draisaitl's new deal set to take effect next year, the cap-problem becomes even more aggravated.
Top-NHL analyst reports on need for Oilers to get younger
Recently, Seravalli commented on the Oilers' age-dilemma. Following two-straight Stanley Cup Finals exits, the answer is obvious.
«Look, I think the Oilers need that injection of youth," Seavalli said. "I think they're in a spot where they need to really turn things over as a team that was a little bit older.»
Adding players like Hobey Baker award winner Ike Howard and Matt Savoie were a good first step.
"How many more guys like Matt Savoie, like Ike Howard, can they find to plug in their lineup to just begin to turn that roster over a little bit and make it a little bit younger? For the Oilers, bringing in young talent on entry-level contracts isn't just a good idea; it's a strategy to manage cap headaches as stars get new, richer deals.
Leon Draisaitl's new deal kicks in. Connor McDavid will need a new one. At some point, Stuart Skinner will need a new one. You've got the new one kicking in for Evan Bouchard. The math gets hairy. When you're in that spot, you need guys who are contributing through the entry-level system.»
Leon Draisaitl's new deal kicks in. Connor McDavid will need a new one. At some point, Stuart Skinner will need a new one. You've got the new one kicking in for Evan Bouchard. The math gets hairy. When you're in that spot, you need guys who are contributing through the entry-level system.»
Outside of Ike Howard and Mathew Savoie, the Oilers don't have any top-level NHL prospects. The have several mid-range young players that will be competing for a roster spot at training camp, though most, and perhaps all will be playing with Bakersfield in 2025-26.
Oilers' GM Stan Bowman needs to prioritize youth and cap-viability this coming NHL season, or face the risk of being less competitive.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 27 | 209 ANSWERS Oilers' roster problems continue to compound in 2025-26 season Do the Oilers need to becomeyounger? | ||
| yes | 161 | 77 % |
| no | 48 | 23 % |
| List of polls | ||