It is no secret that the Edmonton Oilers have been struggling to start the season. Their 1-5-1 record makes them 7th in the Pacific division, ahead of only the San Jose Sharks, who are yet to record a win this year. The Oilers have been so bad, in fact, that some are already concerned that the team may not make the playoffs. Tonight they will look to save their season.
The Oilers have been struggling on both ends of the ice but particularly in their own zone. Their 30 goals against ranks tied for 5th worst in the NHL despite playing one fewer game than most teams. As a result, the team is reportedly implementing a completely new defensive zone structure set to debut tonight at the Heritage Classic.
While Edmonton's struggles on defense and in goal could have been predicted to an extent, the team's lack of offense has been far more surprising. With just 17 goals through 7 games, the Oilers are tied for 30th in the league in goals for. The offense should get a much needed boost tonight though as the team announced Connor McDavid would be returning from his minor injury ahead of schedule.
One can only hope that the team is not rushing him back to the ice when he is not 100% healthy. While the team desperately needs a win, if McDavid were to reaggravate the injury and be out long-term, that could completely derail the Oiler's season.
