Connor McDavid and Mike Babcock enter a season where Edmonton's biggest issue may have little to do with generating offense.
After back-to-back trips to the Stanley Cup Final, the Oilers were eliminated in the first round last season, creating pressure for Babcock to correct what went wrong.
Several OilersNation contributors pointed toward the same problem: Edmonton's defensive structure slipped badly, and its short-handed unit became another major concern.
“The Oilers were horrendous defensively last season, which includes the penalty kill. Establishing a strong defensive mindset, which they had the two previous seasons, is the key.” - Liam Horrobin
Jason Gregor identified puck management in all 3 zones as a priority, arguing that Edmonton needs to become more reliable defensively before anything else improves.
Liam Horrobin also pointed directly toward defensive play, saying the Oilers need to rediscover the mindset that helped them during their previous 2 postseason runs.
Michael Menzies wants a more aggressive approach away from the puck, with stronger pressure on the forecheck and less time available for opponents to create.
That would also help whoever is in the crease by reducing clean looks and forcing opponents into faster decisions before they reach dangerous areas.
“On the ice, I think the Oilers need to become more aggressive away from the puck, forechecking, taking away time and space, and that will in turn support their goaltending.” - Michael Menzies
Mike Babcock's biggest Oilers problem has finally come to light
The roster question behind that issue is just as interesting. Josh Samanski is expected to receive a legitimate opportunity to win the fourth-line centre job during camp.
Gregor sees Samanski starting there, but not with the position guaranteed. Edmonton's lack of natural centres gives the rookie a clear opening if he earns Babcock's trust.
“There are two for me: defensive zone coverage and the penalty kill. Fix those and the Oilers will be in a great spot.” - Baggedmilk
Isaac Howard faces a similar test higher in the lineup. The expectation isn't necessarily instant top-six production, but establishing himself as an everyday NHL option would represent real progress.
Jake Walman carries another layer of pressure after his 7-year, $49,000,000 extension drew criticism. His biggest concern isn't talent; it's staying healthy enough to give Edmonton consistent top-four minutes.
All of those individual questions still come back to Babcock's system. Edmonton can survive growing pains from young forwards if the team protects the puck, closes space and defends with structure.
The Oilers already know McDavid and Leon Draisaitl can drive offense. What they need from Babcock is a team that doesn't make their stars chase games because of breakdowns behind them.
If Edmonton cleans up its defensive-zone coverage and short-handed play, the path back toward a deeper playoff run becomes much clearer. That is the first job waiting for Babcock.
Source : Monday Mailbag: What is the Oilers' biggest on-ice issue Mike Babcock needs to fix?
Is fixing Edmonton's defensive structure Mike Babcock's biggest job this season?
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