Latest on McDavid, Desharnais Contract Talks, Ceci and Nurse
Can the Oilers finish strong without McDavid, and how will the blue line hold up?
Welcome to the THW Edmonton Oilers Substack newsletter, with all the latest from our team of Oilers writers.
Connor McDavid spoke with the media about his injury situation and it’s not clear how long he’ll be out. There is talk about negotiations with Vincent Desharnais being put on pause, and let’s find some bright spots as the season winds down.
Enjoy today’s edition.
Oilers Have Bright Side to Disappointing OT Loss vs. Coyotes
April 13, 2024 by Brian Swane
The Edmonton Oilers were defeated 3-2 in overtime by the Arizona Coyotes on Friday (April 12) at Rogers Place. They failed to make a big move in the Pacific Division race by coming up short against a team that many believe Edmonton should have easily beaten.
Oilers Signing Desharnais, Bouchard May Lead to Cap Dump Trade
April 12, 2024 by Jim Parsons
According to Ryan Rishaug of TSN, contract negotiations for defenseman Vincent Desharnais with the Edmonton Oilers have been temporarily suspended. It’s not clear how close the two sides got before agreeing to put things on pause, but the fact talks are happening is a good sign. Desharnais, a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA), has taken huge steps this season, and solidified his role within the lineup. He is cementing himself on the team’s third pair. Can Desharnais become more than that? It’s a question the Oilers will have to wrestle with as they negotiate.
Oilers’ Stanley Cup Hopes Rest on Nurse and Ceci’s Shoulders
April 12, 2024 by Michael Golden
There has been much debate regarding the play of Darnell Nurse and Cody Ceci this season. The Edmonton Oilers have had relatively consistent success with their other two defensive pairs, but Nurse and Ceci have been boom or bust over various stretches. Management explored potential solutions in the trade market but ultimately couldn’t get a deal that made sense to them. This duo is back for another playoff run, and if the Oilers want to win the Stanley Cup, they will need both players to be at their best.
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McDavid’s Injury Status Means Oilers Have Delicate Decision Ahead
April 11, 2024 by Jim Parsons
The Edmonton Oilers decisively handled the Vegas Golden Knights on Wednesday night, winning by a score of 5-1 and making a statement in a victory without captain Connor McDavid. The Oilers limited the Golden Knights to 18 shots and showcased their ability in a low-event contest that could be critical to winning without the game’s best player. Edmonton made it harder for the Golden Knights to move up the standings and the Oilers inched closer to the Vancouver Canucks, all good things.