Will Jack Campbell falter or rebound this season?

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Ryan Hall
September 1, 2023 (10:35)

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The Edmonton Oilers are a team that is in win-now mode this season. Without a doubt, this is one of the most important seasons in the McDavid era, as General Manager Ken Holland trimmed around the edges during the offseason, moving two players to Detroit for virtually nothing and signing a few free agents to round out the roster.

The team possesses enough offence to compete for the long term, while their defence remains a big question mark. However, the biggest uncertainty lies in goal, in terms of how Jack Campbell will react to the upcoming season. Many observers of Jack Campbell's career have noticed that he struggles at times, especially when his confidence takes a hit.

During his time with the Maple Leafs, when the pressure began to mount, particularly in the Game 7 series against the Montreal Canadiens when the Leafs were on their heels after losing two consecutive games, Campbell started to crumble under the pressure. He let in a poor goal directly between his legs from Brendan Gallagher.

After signing his five-year, $25 million contract, he once again began to show those cracks with the Oilers, especially early in the season and throughout the season. The pressure will be ratcheted up again, as the need to perform is paramount for this team, which will be facing a Leon Draisaitl contract extension next year, whether he is retained or let go.

Alan Mitchell of The Athletic made a statement regarding Campbell and the potential consequences if he falters once more.

Stuart Skinner should build on his rookie campaign and veteran Jack Campbell may recover enough to keep his job with the Oilers. If Campbell struggles again, it's possible the Oilers move him out in favour of a more consistent option.

source � �Lowetide: Edmonton Oilers 2023-24 complete reasonable expectations' � Allan Mitchell � The Athletic � 08/30/2023

The good news for the Oilers is that they have Stuart Skinner, who has demonstrated the ability to perform at a higher level. He should be capable of carrying the team through the season and into the playoffs.

However, I believe that if this is genuinely a win-now season for the Oilers, Ken Holland should actively search for a goalie who can provide the boost they need to reach the next level, especially around the trade deadline.