Newer Headline: Doug MacLean uncovers Oilers' key to success lies in solid defense and stellar goaltending
The Edmonton Oilers remain in the playoff race, but questions around defense and goaltending continue to grow. Edmonton holds a 32-26-9 record with 73 points and sits third in the Pacific, despite making it to two straight Stanley Cup finals in the 2024 and 2025 seasons. The team scores at an elite rate but still struggles to protect its own net.
Former NHL executive Doug MacLean recently shared blunt criticism about the Oilers’ defensive problems. He spoke on Sportsnet with Nick Kypreos and Gord Stellick after Edmonton’s heavy loss to the Dallas Stars . MORE: Oilers’ Tristan Jarry decision under fire after Stars blowout Dallas defeated Edmonton 7-2 in a dominant performance.
The defeat highlighted the Oilers’ ongoing defensive issues. MacLean said the same concerns have followed Edmonton for years. He noted that players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl often discuss the need for stronger team defense.
However, he believes the team still has not solved the problem. “You can’t score your way to a championship, unfortunately,” MacLean said. “Scoring is great, but you don’t score your way to a championship.
You’ve got to be able to defend, and when [Kris] Knoblauch comes in there, I thought they would straighten it out when he came in, and it hasn’t happened. ” Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) keeps the puck away from Dallas Stars left wing Jason Robertson (21) during the first period at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Edmonton continues to produce goals at a high rate.