Oilers fans call for coaching change after long time problem arises, analyst suggests replacement
he Edmonton Oilers have been a team in flux for several seasons, always teetering on the edge of greatness but struggling to reach their full potential. With an elite roster headlined by two of the NHL’s brightest stars, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Oilers should be in serious contention for the Stanley Cup every year. However, despite the incredible talent on the roster, the Oilers have consistently fallen short of expectations, raising questions about team chemistry, defensive structure, and, most importantly, the leadership behind the bench. Fans of the Oilers, who have watched their team underperform despite the presence of two generational players, have begun calling for a change at the head coach position. This growing sentiment has sparked discussions among analysts, with some suggesting potential replacements for head coach Jay Woodcroft.
A Recurring Problem for the Oilers: Inconsistent Play
The root of the frustration from Oilers fans is the team’s ongoing struggle with consistency. The Oilers have been plagued by stretches of poor play, particularly in key areas such as defensive coverage, special teams, and goaltending. While McDavid and Draisaitl consistently put up remarkable offensive numbers, they cannot carry the team alone, especially when the defensive zone and goaltending continue to falter. For a team that is built around one of the best offensive duos in the NHL, it is unacceptable to see such persistent weaknesses in other aspects of the game.
In previous seasons, the Oilers have shown flashes of brilliance but have often been undone by defensive lapses and goaltending struggles. These issues were particularly evident in their playoff series losses, where the team’s defensive shortcomings exposed the flaws in their overall system. The inability to shut down opponents, particularly in crucial moments of the game, has been one of the most glaring issues during Woodcroft’s tenure as head coach.
Fans have expressed growing frustration with the fact that, despite having one of the most potent offenses in the league, the Oilers are still not able to consistently compete for the highest honors. As the 2024-2025 season has unfolded, that frustration has boiled over. The Oilers’ inability to maintain consistency throughout the season—particularly after high expectations following a successful 2023 playoff run—has many wondering if a change at the coaching position is necessary to take the team to the next level.
Woodcroft’s Tenure: Highs and Lows
Jay Woodcroft became head coach of the Edmonton Oilers in February 2022, after the team struggled under former head coach Dave Tippett. Since taking over, Woodcroft has seen success in certain areas. His ability to unlock the offensive potential of McDavid and Draisaitl has been evident, and under his guidance, the Oilers have maintained one of the league’s best offenses. He has also led the team to the Western Conference Finals in 2023, showcasing his ability to guide them deep into the playoffs.
However, the success under Woodcroft has often been inconsistent. While his teams have shown strong offensive play, his tenure has been marred by questions regarding his defensive strategy and his ability to adjust to different situations. Under Woodcroft, the Oilers’ defense has remained a weak point, and many of the same issues that plagued the team under previous head coaches have persisted.
Despite the talent at his disposal, Woodcroft has not been able to bring the necessary balance to the team. His defensive schemes have often been criticized for being too passive, leading to open ice for opponents and costly mistakes. Additionally, the Oilers have been unable to solve their goaltending issues, with no clear solution emerging despite efforts to address the position through acquisitions and player development.
One of the most glaring problems that have emerged under Woodcroft’s leadership is the team’s inability to handle pressure situations, particularly in the postseason. While the Oilers have made the playoffs under his leadership, they have not been able to reach the ultimate goal of a Stanley Cup. The team has consistently underperformed when faced with intense competition, leading many to believe that the issues stem from the coaching staff’s inability to make the necessary adjustments in high-stakes moments.
Fans’ Call for a Coaching Change
As the Oilers struggle with consistency in the 2024-2025 season, the calls for a coaching change have grown louder. Fans, who have been patient with Woodcroft, are increasingly frustrated by the team’s inability to break through and compete at the highest level. Despite the presence of McDavid and Draisaitl, the Oilers have failed to address their biggest issues, and many believe that a new voice behind the bench is necessary to take the team to the next level.
The frustration from fans is not just about the team’s poor performance on the ice; it’s about the lack of clear solutions to the team’s most pressing issues. Fans want to see a coach who can implement a defensive system that can support the team’s high-powered offense. They want to see a coach who can make the right decisions in pressure situations, both during the regular season and in the playoffs. After several years of disappointment, many fans are starting to wonder if Woodcroft is the right man to lead the team to a championship.
Analyst Suggestions for Potential Replacements
As the calls for a coaching change intensify, NHL analysts have started weighing in on who could replace Woodcroft if the Oilers decide to make a move. There are several potential candidates who could bring a new approach to Edmonton’s bench and help address the team’s longstanding issues.
- Todd McLellan (Los Angeles Kings)
One name that has been floated by several analysts is Todd McLellan, the current head coach of the Los Angeles Kings. McLellan has a wealth of experience in the NHL, having previously coached the Oilers from 2015 to 2018. During his time in Edmonton, McLellan helped develop McDavid into the superstar he is today, but ultimately his tenure ended due to the Oilers’ inability to achieve sustained success.
Since leaving Edmonton, McLellan has found success with the Kings, leading them to multiple playoff appearances. His defensive acumen and ability to build balanced teams have been praised. McLellan would be an interesting option for the Oilers, as he knows the team’s culture and could bring a more structured defensive system to complement the offensive talent on the roster.
- Barry Trotz (New York Islanders)
Another name that analysts have mentioned is Barry Trotz, the former head coach of the Washington Capitals and current coach of the New York Islanders. Trotz is known for his defensive-minded coaching style and his ability to get the most out of his players in a disciplined system. He led the Capitals to a Stanley Cup in 2018, and his ability to implement a strong defensive game plan could be just what the Oilers need.
Trotz would bring a wealth of experience and a different style to the Oilers, focusing on team defense and playing a more structured game. His success in Washington, where he led a high-powered offense while building a rock-solid defense, could be a model for the Oilers to follow.
- John Tortorella (Philadelphia Flyers)
While his personality might be divisive, John Tortorella has been a successful coach in the NHL and has a proven track record of turning teams around. Tortorella’s defensive system, combined with his no-nonsense approach, could help the Oilers address some of their major weaknesses. Tortorella is known for demanding accountability from his players, and his style might be just what the Oilers need to create a more balanced and disciplined team.
Though Tortorella’s coaching style may be tough for some players to handle, his ability to bring teams to the next level has been proven. If the Oilers decide to go in a new direction, Tortorella could provide the team with the necessary leadership to make the jump from a talented team to a championship contender.
- Mike Babcock (Former NHL Coach)
While this might be a controversial option, former Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock is another name that has been suggested. Babcock’s reputation as a tough, no-nonsense coach has earned him both praise and criticism over the years. He led the Detroit Red Wings to a Stanley Cup in 2008 and was known for his ability to maximize the potential of his players.
Despite his past controversies, Babcock’s experience in high-pressure situations could be beneficial for the Oilers. His ability to implement a detailed system could address some of the defensive issues that have plagued the team during Woodcroft’s tenure. However, his personality may not be a perfect fit for every player on the roster, and his hiring would undoubtedly be met with mixed reactions from fans and players alike.
