Oilers GM Stan Bowman Addresses Team Response to Zadorov Checking Stuart Skinner
Edmonton Oilers GM Stan Bowman spoke with the media in mid-season check up, and addressed multiple issues including the team's lack of response to Nikita Zadorov checking Stuart Skinner.
Last night, longtime Oilers rival Nikita Zadorov skated full speed into goaltender Stuart Skinner, who was briefly pulled from the game by concussion spotters.
There was practically no response from the Edmonton Oilers, which drew some significant criticism from fans for breaking hockey's code.
However, Stan Bowman told Sportsnet in a new interview there was more that occurred than fans were able to see on the broadcast.
- Stan Bowman
Bowman seems to be hinting at things that potentially occurred in between commercial breaks, or chirps on the ice. He's also right to point out that the Oilers' most meaningful response is dominating the Bruins and winning 4-0.
Do the Edmonton Oilers need more toughness before the playoffs?
The Zadorov play is raising questions about the Oilers ability to hang with tough teams and respond physically, which will become critical in the playoffs.
The Oilers are currently last place in the NHL in hits, while their playoff foe Florida Panthers are currently 1st in the league. Hitting surely isn't the be all and end all of success, but Edmonton will need to ramp up to match the competition soon.
Insider Bob Stauffer has previously hinted that the Oilers could pursue a tough bottom six forward in trade, but GM Stan Bowman reiterated the team will most likely be acquiring a defenceman instead.
Based on his responses, it doesn't seem Bowman is prioritizing toughness in the lineup.
- Stan Bowman
Oilers fans surely would've liked to see more of a physical response after such an aggressive play on the goaltender, but winning 4-0 and being on top of the NHL is a much better goal - and Edmonton is achieving it.
