BREAKING: Oilers' GM Ken Holland Reveals Opening Night Roster

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Skyler Walker
August 27, 2023 (12:52)

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As the Edmonton Oilers prepare for the upcoming season, general manager Ken Holland is already shaping the team that will hit the ice on October 11 against the Vancouver Canucks. With the pressure mounting on the team, especially with reigning league MVP Connor McDavid entering his ninth season in Edmonton, the stakes are high for a successful postseason.

Postseason Ambitions After Vegas Defeat

Despite falling to the eventual Stanley Cup champions, the Vegas Golden Knights, in the second round of last season's playoffs, the Oilers have their sights set on greater achievements. Their aspiration to win their first Western Conference Final game since 2006, when they advanced to the Stanley Cup Final, fuels their determination.

Holland's Strategy for the Roster

Holland shed some light on his roster plans when he spoke to Mark Spector of Sportsnet. The team's blue line will feature the same seven defencemen who concluded last year.

«We're going to start with the seven defencemen who finished last year. The goalies are set,» Holland said to Spector in an article published Saturday. «Up front, we signed Brandon Sutter this summer. We'll go to camp, see what they can do, watch the waiver wire.»

- Ken Holland

Goalies Jack Campbell and Stuart Skinner are set to make their return. Brandon Sutter's professional tryout contract further bolsters the squad's options.

21 Players to Begin the Season

In a tactical move to adhere to the salary cap, Holland revealed his intention to kickstart the season with 21 players, rather than the maximum 23. This strategic approach aims to ensure the team's financial stability from the outset.

Consistency for Long-Term Success

Holland stressed the importance of maintaining a consistent level of performance over the years. He highlighted the need to excel year after year, a trait characteristic of the most successful teams in the league.

As the season draws near, the Oilers are honing their lineup with an eye on postseason triumphs and a roster that blends experience and potential to make their mark on the ice.