2023 Edmonton Oilers Lineup Preview

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Ryan Hall
August 13, 2023 (8:39)

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As August approaches its midway point, numerous NHL teams and their general managers are finalizing their summer plans and shifting their focus toward preparing for training camp. At this juncture, the majority of key players have likely inked new deals, providing general managers the stability required to assemble their rosters.

According to thedailyfaceoff.com, they have chosen to present a preview of the potential Oilers lineup for the inaugural game of the upcoming season.

Notable alterations have been made to the Oilers' offensive lineup in the provided image. Connor Brown and Lane Pederson have been included in the lineup, aiming to inject fresh energy. Jay Woodcroft anticipates a resurgence with Connor Brown, who is set to reunite with his former Erie Otters linemate, Connor McDavid.

Whether Brown maintains his position on the top line remains uncertain, given the presence of Evander Kane directly behind him. It is expected that Dylan Holloway will seek to make his full-time debut with the Oilers, as Kailer Yamamoto and Klim Kostin are no longer part of the team.

The defensive pairings largely mirror those from the previous season's playoffs. However, there are areas of uncertainty within the defensive core, particularly surrounding Vincent Desharnais. His production dwindled towards the end of the season and into the playoffs. Furthermore, questions persist about Evan Bouchard's contract status, as the team deliberates between a bridge deal or an alternative agreement. The defensive pairings require further refinement, as the current composition might not propel the team as far into the playoffs as desired.

The goaltending situation remains unchanged from the previous year. Stuart Skinner, after securing a three-year contract extension, is poised to assume the role of full-time starter for the team, carrying a $1.8 million cap hit per season.

This contrasts with Jack Campbell, for whom General Manager Ken Holland initially envisioned the role of the top goaltender. Campbell's $5 million annual contract is now in its second of five seasons. While Campbell has exhibited the ability to turn his performance around in the past, as seen with other teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs, Stuart Skinner is determined to solidify his position as the starting goaltender.

As reported in other articles, the Oilers have maintained a relatively low profile throughout the summer, making minor adjustments to certain areas. Nevertheless, there is a prevailing sentiment that the team requires further talent reshuffling to enhance their prospects of making a deeper postseason run this year.