Oilers announcer Jack Michaels has been a fan favourite for truly capturing the passion in his game calls, and in Game 7, he truly captured the heartbreak of Oilers fans.
Despite the fact that Michaels is moved to the radio only for the playoff broadcast, he's been around and pulling for the team's success as much as any media member. His play by play calls obviously favour the Oilers, but it's incredible to hear the emotion in his voice as it pertains to the game. As he choked out the final seconds, you could hear the disappointment in his voice when he announced the Panthers had officially won. It must've been an incredibly difficult call for both him and Bob Stauffer.
With Michaels' incredible performances like this, it's not wonder more fans want him on nationally televised games - and it could happen next season. Sportsnet is shuffling broadcast voices for next season, and there could be an opening for Michaels to call m national games, and even Oilers playoff games. Fans have been petitioning Sportsnet for years, and they could make a very popular decision to put Michaels on the national broadcast.
For the Edmonton Oilers, hopefully this is just another step on the way to their destiny. The character and pure talent they displayed in this playoffs will translate into another Cup Final appearance, as long as they can keep this team together. Connor McDavid will win a Stanley Cup, but this year, the Oilers were just a shot away from tying it and completing a miracle series comeback.
