When comparing the Edmonton Oilers‘ performance in the 2023-24 season to the previous one, their point totals appear quite similar. However, delving into the details reveals two distinct narratives, showcasing vastly different trajectories for the team within the NHL’s Western Conference.
In the 2022-23 season, after 38 games, the Oilers amassed 42 points. Their monthly records included a 6-3 performance in October, a 7-7 outcome in November, and a 7-6-2 standing in December, resulting in a combined record of 20-16-2. Fast forward to this season, and they have improved by three points, boasting a 22-15-1 record. What makes this noteworthy is their challenging start at 2-5-1 in October, placing them near the bottom of the NHL standings in early November. The turnaround has been remarkable.
Since Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch took the reins from Jay Woodcroft on Nov. 13, the team has experienced a significant shift, securing a 19-6 record. This includes achieving the best record in the NHL since November, marked by an impressive .850 winning percentage. As they approach the 41-game mark, symbolizing the halfway point of the season, the outlook for the Oilers is undeniably optimistic in Oil Country.
Traditionally, the Oilers perform better in the second half of the season.
Looking back to the abbreviated 2020-21 season within the Connor McDavid era, the Oilers have consistently displayed robust performances from January to April in the preceding three seasons. They concluded the 2020-21 season with an impressive 39-19-2 record, followed by a noteworthy 31-15-7 in 2021-22, and a remarkable 30-7-7 record last season from January to April.
Considering the team’s current strong performance as they approach the midpoint of the 2023-24 season, there’s a sense of anticipation for a repetition of the successful records from the past. For Oilers fans, this prospect is undoubtedly positive news. However, given the unconventional nature of the 2023-24 season, one can’t discount the possibility of unforeseen developments.
This season has clearly been anything but ordinary.
Earlier in the season, numerous fans and pundits were expressing pessimism about the Oilers. Prominent supporters like former Oilers defenseman Ryan Whitney openly shared their disappointment with the team’s direction in early November. It was a challenging period in Oilers’ history, especially considering the high expectations for this talented group at the season’s outset.
However, they gradually clawed their way out of the slump, embarking on an eight-game winning streak in late November and early December, followed by another impressive nine-game winning streak from late December into the first two weeks of January. The resurgence can be attributed in part to the outstanding performances of McDavid and Mattias Ekholm, who returned from early-season injuries. Additionally, players like Stuart Skinner, Evan Bouchard, Zach Hyman, Ryan McLeod, Darnell Nurse, and Warren Foegele have been showcasing their best hockey in Oilers’ colors. The team appears to have found its rhythm after the challenging start to the season.
Anticipated Performance of the Oilers in the Latter Half of the 2023-24 Season
After the Oilers secured a 3-2 overtime victory against the Detroit Red Wings on January 11, Hyman shared thoughts on backup goalie Calvin Pickard’s impressive performance in the net. Hyman highlighted Pickard’s popularity in the locker room, emphasizing the strong camaraderie within the team. This observation reflects the close bond reminiscent of legendary Oilers teams from the past, featuring iconic players like Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, Paul Coffey, and Kevin Lowe who dominated the NHL. The current Oilers squad appears to be echoing that tight-knit dynamic. The question arises: could this unity translate into a playoff berth and a genuine chance at contending for the Stanley Cup in 2024? With more than half the season remaining, the team’s promising trend under coaches Knoblauch and Coffey suggests optimistic prospects. As the season progresses, Oilers fans may have exciting developments to anticipate as April and May approach.
Two Special Members of Oilers Media Remembered
On January 11, Edmonton witnessed the passing of two titans in sports media with the departure of John Short and Robin Brownlee. In the days since, there has been an outpouring of reflections on their influence and significant contributions. During their stints with the Edmonton Journal and Edmonton Sun, both Short and Brownlee were essential reads for me. I initially learned about Short’s passing through Twitter, but news of Brownlee’s departure came to me while tuning into the Jason Gregor Show on Sports 1440 in Edmonton. Gregor, who shared a close connection with both Short and Brownlee, offered a heartfelt tribute on his show that deserves commendation. It was a moment of profound humanity and strength, making it one of the most memorable hours in Edmonton sports radio.
As a sports enthusiast for over five decades and an Oilers fan since their entry into the NHL in 1979-80, the loss of both Short and Brownlee feels deeply personal. Listening to their insights and reading their articles, it felt like having friends share insider information about the Oilers and the NHL. While their absence leaves a void in Edmonton’s sports media landscape, their enduring contributions have enriched it. The legacy of John Short and Robin Brownlee will be remembered, and they will be greatly missed. Rest in peace.
