There’s already pressure building around the Edmonton Oilers heading into the postseason—but according to Jason Gregor of Sports 1440, the stakes may go far beyond just wins and losses. If the Oilers “flame out” in the playoffs this season, there could be significant changes that reach all the way to the top of the organization.
“If the Oilers don’t have a good playoff run I think we could see significant change that goes high up the hierarchy of the Edmonton Oilers… I don’t think the owner is adverse to anything.”
Gregor suggested that if the Oilers fall short in the playoffs, significant changes could be coming at the top of the organization—and he meant beyond the coach and the GM. Gregor hinted that CEO Jeff Jackson might be in trouble, and one name to watch is Paul Coffey.
“I won’t be surprised that at some point in the future, Paul Coffey is President of Hockey Operations,” Gregor said, pointing to Coffey’s close relationship with owner Darryl Katz and his growing influence behind the scenes.
Coffey seems to be the answer to all questions in Edmonton. Whenever things go sideways, Katz brings him on board, and some believe he holds significant influence. If the Oilers struggle, and there is concern that Connor McDavid might be thinking about leaving or not extending, Jackson’s job isn’t safe. After all, many believe Jackson was brought in because of his relationship to McDavid.
Edmonton is firmly in win-now mode, and anything less than a a long run in the playoffs will lead to change. That won’t be limited to the roster. Kris Knoblauch, despite a new three-year deal could be in trouble. GM Stan Bowman put this roster together (for the most part). But it was Jackson who started the sweeping changes and removed Ken Holland as the GM.
For a team with championship expectations, and one that has turned it on in the playoffs before, should they not do so this season, all bets are off.
The Oilers have already made aggressive moves in recent years to maximize their window with Connor McDavid leading the way. With McDavid’s long-term future always part of the conversation, the organization may feel added urgency to change things if that means he’s more comfortable.
Why Paul Coffey?
The Hall of Famer has been around the team in an advisory capacity and, essentially, Katz’ right hand man. He is widely respected for both his hockey mind and connection to the franchise. And, because he’s got a bit of a reputation for ruffling feathers, he’s not a “yes man”.
There’s a sense that the Oilers have perhaps catered too much to their big stars over the past couple of seasons. While that’s understandable to a point, it has to be the executives making the key decisions, not the players. If ownership is looking for a new voice at the executive level, and one who will do what he believes is right, regardless of player input, he would be a natural candidate.
Of course, much of this hinges on how the Oilers perform when it matters most. A deep playoff run likely quiets any talk of change.
Next: Does McDavid Have What It Takes to Become a Winner Like Crosby?
Discover more from NHL Trade Talk
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
