The latest forecast from The Hockey News places the Edmonton Oilers at 20th overall in the NHL for the 2026‑27 season, a stark contrast to the expectations that surrounded the club just a year ago.
Why the Projection Looks Bleak
Analysts point to a defense corps that lacks a definitive top‑pairing partner for Erik Karlsson, leaving the blue line vulnerable against increasingly skilled opponents. The loss of Darnell Nurse, Mattias Roslovic and Jason Henrique further thins the depth that the team relied on in previous campaigns.
Goaltending remains a question mark. Veteran net‑minder Tristan Jarry has shown inconsistency, while the aging Andersen and untested rookie Devon Levi add layers of uncertainty between the pipes. The publication notes that a stable crease is often the foundation of a championship‑contending team.
Coaching decisions also draw scrutiny. New head coach Kris Knoblauch inherits a roster that must adapt to a different system, and the shadow of Mike Babcock’s past playoff disappointments looms large over the organization’s ability to make timely tactical adjustments.
Rivals Ready to Capitalize
The forecast expects the Anaheim Ducks and San Jose Sharks to improve as their young stars mature, while the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks may see a dip in performance. Even the Vegas Golden Knights could stumble after losing Pavel Dorofeyev, creating a ripple effect that could push the Oilers further down the standings.
For Edmonton to break out of the projected slump, the front office would need to address the defensive voids, secure a reliable goaltending tandem and ensure that the coaching staff can translate strategy into consistent on‑ice results. The window for a Top‑10 finish remains narrow, but not entirely closed.
The coming months will test whether the organization can turn these projected obstacles into opportunities, leveraging the prime years of Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl and Evan Bouchard to mount a resilient campaign.