Last season, the Oilers posted a 41-30-11 record and were swept in the first round of the playoffs by the Anaheim Ducks. The exit prompted multiple changes across the organization, including a coaching change with Mike Babcock taking over behind the bench and a series of offseason roster moves aimed at addressing depth, experience, and versatility.
Oilers’ 2026-27 projected lineup
According to NHL projections, the top line remains anchored by McDavid with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Zach Hyman flanking him. On the second line, veteran center Leon Draisaitl centers a trio that features Vasily Podkolzin and rising forward Matthew Savoie. The organization also appears prepared to give a key prospect a chance to contribute in the middle six, with Isaac Howard projected to skate in a significant role this season.
Full forward lineup:
– Ryan Nugent-Hopkins – Connor McDavid – Zach Hyman
– Vasily Podkolzin – Leon Draisaitl – Matthew Savoie
– Isaac Howard – Jason Dickinson – Kasperi Kapanen
– Mathieu Joseph – Josh Sampo (note: ensure correct spelling—if “Samanski” was intended, verify) – Trent Frederic
On defense, the Oilers added mobility and youth to pair with established players. The defensive corps includes:
– Mattias Ekholm – Evan Bouchard
– Jake Walman – Connor Murphy
– Ryan Shea – Shakir Mukhamadullin
In goal, Frederik Andersen headlines the net, backed by Tristan Jarry. Andersen joins after signing a one-year deal and providing a proven track record of stabilizing goaltending in high-stakes situations.
– Frederik Andersen
– Tristan Jarry
New faces to support Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl
The additions this offseason are designed to complement Edmonton’s core by bringing balance, speed, and depth. Frederik Andersen is expected to provide stability in net, a critical factor after goaltending consistency became an issue at times last season. Andersen has spoken about the franchise’s championship aspirations and how those ambitions influenced his decision to sign with Edmonton, highlighting a shared goal of competing for a title.
The projected lineup also reflects a strategic push to add mobility on the back end. Ryan Shea, who contributed with a 35-point season previously, brings puck-moving ability that can help drive play from the defense. Shakir Mukhamadullin represents another young option on the blue line, offering potential for growth and development within the system. Isaac Howard’s inclusion signals confidence in Edmonton’s prospect pipeline and a belief that he can contribute meaningfully at the NHL level in his first full season.
Key questions for the Oilers this season
A central question remains whether the supporting cast can elevate its performance to complement McDavid and Draisaitl. After last season’s candid assessment from McDavid, who described the team as “average with high expectations,” the organization appears intent on improving both ceiling and consistency. The emphasis on strengthening in goal and defense suggests a multi-pronged approach to closing gaps that were exposed in previous playoff runs.
The Oilers’ success will still hinge on McDavid and Draisaitl delivering elite production, but the offseason moves indicate a deliberate effort to create a more balanced and reliable supporting cast. If Andersen can deliver steady goaltending and the new defense pairings can seamlessly integrate with the existing core, Edmonton could transform itself from a team that leaned heavily on its star players to a more complete contender capable of sustained success.
Outlook for the season
With a roster built to improve depth and flexibility, Edmonton aims to contend deeper into the playoffs and return to the franchise’s championship aspirations. The organization’s emphasis on upgrading goaltending stability, adding capable two-way defensemen, and infusing the lineup with young, dynamic forwards aligns with a broader strategy to maximize McDavid’s and Draisaitl’s extraordinary talents while mitigating the risk of pressure concentrating on a small group of players.
Fans can anticipate an immediate impact from the new pieces, particularly in net and on the back end, where improved decision-making, faster transition play, and better puck control could translate into more consistent starts and fewer high-leverage scoring chances for opponents. If the new players adapt quickly and the team continues to develop its depth, Edmonton’s trajectory could shift toward the contender category more readily than in recent seasons.
