Here is the rewritten content in my own words:
Edmonton – Special teams can make a big difference in hockey games.
Despite being a Stanley Cup finalist, the Edmonton Oilers have struggled with their penalty killing units in recent playoff appearances.
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Fortunately, there are moves underway to tackle the team’s clear weaknesses, which will be crucial for both fans and the organization.
Oilers’ Current Situation
The Oilers are looking at a fresh start as they gear up for a new season. Their promising defenseman recently signed a new contract, and the full 2025-26 regular season schedule is now available. Discussions have been raised around the team’s goaltender depth, with opinions varying on whether new targets will improve the situation or if current options outshine elite players like John Gibson.
How Struggling is Edmonton’s Penalty Kill?
During the 2024-25 playoffs, Edmonton’s penalty kill was only successful 67.1% of the time, ranking 14th out of the 16 teams that made the playoffs. Teams like the Ottawa Senators and Los Angeles Kings also had poor penalty kill statistics, while the top-performing penalty kill belonged to the back-to-back Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers.
Plans from Kris Knoblauch to Improve
Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch recently appeared on the Oilers Show with Bob Stauffer to discuss strategies moving forward. He indicated that changes to the penalty kill were expected, but the extent depended on the makeup of the roster next season.
Personnel decisions are key to an effective penalty kill. Knoblauch described how they are evaluating player roles—whether the unit will focus more on skating or blocking shots—and said they are studying successful NHL teams to shape their approach.
He acknowledged the penalty kill will look different next season, and much of their strategy will be inspired by top-performing squads around the league.
Who Sets the Standard in Penalty Killing?
Over the past three seasons, the Carolina Hurricanes have been the standout team in penalty killing, maintaining a top-five short-handed unit all three years. They led the NHL the last two years with success rates of 83.6% and 86.4%, and were close behind at 84.4% three years ago.
Corey Lavallee, an athletic expert, noted that Hurricane players excel by using speed, offensive instincts to anticipate plays, and strong shot-blocking willingness. For the Oilers looking to improve their penalty kill, modeling their system after the Hurricanes might be the best path forward.
Fan Take:
This update is critical for hockey fans because it shows how a top team like the Oilers is being strategic about fixing one of their glaring weaknesses. Improved penalty killing could be a game-changer, potentially turning tight playoff series in their favor and influencing how future NHL teams build their special teams.
