Edmonton Oilers Special Teams Struggles: Why the Power Play Dropped & How to Fix It

The Edmonton Oilers are known for having one of the most dangerous power plays in the NHL, led by Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Zach Hyman, Ryan Nugent‑Hopkins, and Evan Bouchard. But in 2024‑25, the Oilers’ power play dropped from top‑five status to 11th in the league. On this episode of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis dives deep into the numbers behind this regression fewer scoring chances, decreased shots on goal, and a notable decline in high‑danger opportunities. Was this simply a case of Zach Hyman’s regression from his career‑best season, or is the problem rooted in strategy and predictability?We explore the underlying analytics, how opposing defenses like the Florida Panthers neutralized Edmonton’s man advantage in the Stanley Cup Final, and what changes new coaching tactics could bring. From puck‑movement strategies to adjusting zone entries and personnel usage, Nick offers solutions to help the Oilers return to elite status on special teams in 2025‑26.0:00 Intro: Oilers power play analysis5:16 Raw numbers: Power play time and opportunities16:28 Impact of power play regression over a season19:34 Investigating year-over-year power play changes24:09 Oilers' unique power play structure and tactics28:46 Outro: Subscribe and upcoming contentEdmonton Oilers Special Teams Struggles: Why the Power Play Dropped & How to Fix ItSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnhl for 50% off your first year.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get $150 in Bonus Bets if your first $5 bet wins!FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOOilers?sid=YouTubeLocked On NHL League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Prospects & More🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNHL #NHL #Oilers #EdmontonOilers Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.