What Should the Edmonton Oilers Do Now? 5 Moves to Make After Their Second Stanley Cup Final Loss

After coming so close—twice—the Edmonton Oilers find themselves staring down one of the most critical offseasons in franchise history. With the Stanley Cup slipping through their fingers once again, the question isn't whether they’re a good team (they are), but whether they’re the right team to finally bring the Cup back to Alberta.

Here’s a deep dive into what the Oilers must do right now to keep the momentum, fix key gaps, and finally turn heartbreak into a championship.

1. Reassess Leadership & Core Contracts

The clock is ticking on Connor McDavid's contract, and while he’s remained loyal and laser-focused, his silence on long-term plans has the hockey world buzzing. Edmonton must either reaffirm his commitment or prepare for the unthinkable: life without McDavid.

Meanwhile, Evan Bouchard is due for a major payday. Locking him in long-term is crucial to maintaining defensive stability. With GM Stan Bowman at the helm, every move this summer will send a message about the team’s long-term direction.

2. Build Depth at Wing and Defense

The playoffs exposed one painful truth: beyond McDavid and Draisaitl, the roster lacks consistent scoring depth. With over $12 million in cap space, the Oilers need to get creative—and aggressive.

Targets? A dynamic winger to support the second line. A shutdown defenseman to bolster their blue line. And yes, possibly keeping veterans like Corey Perry or Connor Brown who bring playoff grit.

This team doesn’t need a full rebuild—it needs reinforcements.

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 3. Upgrade the Goaltending and Defensive Consistency

While Calvin Pickard and Stuart Skinner showed heart, they were outclassed by Sergei Bobrovsky. Goaltending consistency has been a recurring issue—and in a game of inches, it matters.

A proven, reliable goalie could be the difference in a tight seven-game series. Add to that a more physical, disciplined defensive core, and suddenly the Oilers aren’t chasing—they’re controlling.

 4. Re-Evaluate Tactical Identity

McDavid is the best player on the planet—but even he admitted they couldn’t crack Florida’s relentless forecheck in Game 6. The Oilers looked too reactive, too predictable.

Strategic flexibility is the name of the game. Whether it’s mixing up zone entries, improving on special teams, or giving McDavid the green light to shoot more often, tactical adjustments must be part of training camp, not mid-series improvisation.

Coach Kris Knoblauch and Bowman have their work cut out for them.

 5. Stay the Course—But Smarter

Let’s not forget: back-to-back Final appearances are no fluke. This core group is special. Panic trades or wholesale changes aren’t the answer. What the Oilers need is a refinement of their roster—not a reinvention.

Smart signings, tactical coaching, and internal development can push this team over the top. After all, dynasties aren’t built overnight—they’re forged through heartbreak and built with intent.

Offseason Checklist for Edmonton Oilers

Final Word

The Oilers are right there. A few smart moves, a bit more depth, and a little luck—and they could be hoisting the Cup next year. The window is open, but it's not guaranteed to stay that way. This summer? It's go time.