The Edmonton Oilers continue to face questions about their consistency during the 2025-26 NHL season. There are talks about tension inside the locker room as the team struggled to build a win streak, but Oilers broadcaster Bob Stauffer pushed back against those claims this week.
Stauffer defended the team in a post on X rejecting the idea that players do not support each other.
Advertisement
“It’s been a season of ups and downs for the @EdmontonOilers, but for anyone to suggest that the players don’t have each other’s back would be ridiculous,” Stauffer said. “The best push each other on and off the ice each and every day. Great opportunity ahead of this group right now.”
MORE: Wayne Gretzky’s one warning for Edmonton Oilers in 25-26 NHL season
Despite Stauffer’s faith in the Oilers, the team produced mixed results during the current campaign. Edmonton holds a 31-25-8 record with 70 points, and sits third in the Pacific Division as the playoff race tightens. Offensive production remains their biggest strength, and they average 3.55 goals per game with the NHL’s top power play.
Advertisement
Captain Connor McDavid continues to drive the offense and leads the league with 108 points, including 35 goals. His scoring, along with that of Leon Draisaitl (92 points), keeps Edmonton competitive in many close games. But the Oilers rely heavily on their top players for production.
Defense remains a major concern for the team, as Edmonton has allowed 3.36 goals per game this season. That figure ranks near the bottom of the NHL. This flaw gets exploited more often, with a lackluster penalty kill standing at 77.4 percent. Improvements in defensive play could help strengthen the Oilers’ deep playoff chances.
The Edmonton Oilers celebrate a goal scored by forward Vasily Podkolzin (92) during the second period against the Carolina Hurricanes at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images
Goaltending has also played a big role in the team’s underwhelming result. Edmonton traded Stuart Skinner to the Pittsburgh Penguins in December and acquired Tristan Jarry to strengthen the position. But Jarry has posted a 3.85 goals-against average through his early games. This transition has added more pressure during an already bad season.
Advertisement
Edmonton now aims to regain balance before the playoffs, especially with their trade deadline moves. They acquired Jason Dickinson and Colton Dach from the Chicago Blackhawks in hopes that the additions would improve depth and chemistry. We’ll have to wait and see how it helps them.
— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —
NFL: 2026 NFL Free Agency’s biggest Day 1 winners
WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC: Randy Arozarena slams Cal Raleigh after he refuses to shake hands at WBC
MARCH MADNESS: 5 potential bracket-busting March Madness 2026 Cinderella teams
NBA: Adam Silver sends message after cancelling Hawks’ ‘Magic Monday’ promotion
Advertisement
PARALYMPICS: 2026 Winter Paralympics medal count standings entering March 10
VIRAL: Wasserman Agency reveals new name, cancelling disgraced founder
The post Oilers broadcaster pushes back on doubts about Edmonton’s commitment appeared first on The Big Lead.