Locked On Oilers - Daily Podcast On The Edmonton Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers are caught in a perpetual goalie carousel, and it’s threatening their status as true Stanley Cup contenders. In this episode, we break down why finding a consistent, long-term starting goaltender is one of the hardest challenges in the NHL today. In this episode, we dive deep into: The Scarcity Myth: Why there aren't enough "elite" goalies to go around for 32 teams and why the position is more reliant on team environment than people realize. The Goalie Tier List: Analyzing the current landscape of NHL netminders—from elite stars like Igor Shesterkin and Andrei Vasilevskiy to the "good" and "starter" tiers. The Oilers' Specific Struggles: Why the combination of Tristan Jarry, Stuart Skinner, and Calvin Pickard failed to provide league-average production and the compounding effects of team roster construction. The Developmental Gap: Why rushing a young goalie into a high-pressure environment like Edmonton often leads to burnout, and why elite teams succeed by bringing prospects along slowly. The Financial Reality: Breaking down why the current goaltending market forces teams into difficult trade-offs between cost and production. Goaltending is a fickle position, and for the Oilers to maximize their championship window, they need to solve the puzzle of balancing workload, physical development, and salary cap constraints 03:49 Comparing NHL goalie performances 07:05 Discussing Top NHL Goalies 12:44 Challenges in Oilers' Goalie Situation 13:53 Modernizing Football and Hockey Strategies 19:26 Oilers goalie issues and lineup challenges 20:54 Stuart Skinner's Impactful Rookie Season 25:32 Vidar Ladar's unexpected success 28:05 NHL goalie salary comparison Why the Edmonton Oilers Can’t Fix Their Goalie Problem Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Decagon Ready to transform your customer support? Go to decagon.ai/LOCKEDONNHL to get a personalized demo and see what Decagon can do for your team.   FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

With the NHL free agency period just days away, the Edmonton Oilers have clear holes to fill in their forward group, defensive core, and goaltending tandem. Join host Nick Zararis on today’s Locked On Oilers as we play matchmaker for the Oilers and analyze the best fits in a buyer-beware market. In this episode: Forward Targets: We analyze potential middle-six additions, including a "dart throw" on Patrick Laine’s elite goal-scoring ability, the pros and cons of targeting Anders Lee, Oliver Bjorkstrand’s versatility, and the risks associated with Mason Marchment. Defensive Shake-up: What does the future hold for Darnell Nurse? We discuss the potential trade market for Nurse and evaluate cost-effective defensive solutions like Jamie Oleksiak and the high-upside gamble of Ville Heinola. The Goalie Crisis: With the Oilers currently tied to Tristan Jarry, we break down why the team desperately needs a tandem partner to raise their floor. Could a reunion with Cam Talbot or a pride-based pitch to Sergei Bobrovsky be the answer? 04:43 Evaluating Roslovic and Lione's potential 08:03 Evaluating potential new players 12:25 Discussing Darnell Nurse Trade Options 17:40 Analyzing Defensive Player Potential 20:01 Discussing NHL free agency mess 23:42 Considering Bobrovsky for Oilers 25:36 Discussing Goalie Performances and Strategies 28:19 Reuniting with Cam Talbot Edmonton Oilers Free Agency Preview: Forwards, Defense, and Goalie Needs Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Decagon Ready to transform your customer support? Go to decagon.ai/LOCKEDONNHL to get a personalized demo and see what Decagon can do for your team.   FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers are entering their longest offseason in three years, and it is rife with massive structural changes. From foundational roster issues to one of the most controversial coaching hires in recent memory, this upcoming NHL season is officially a "do-or-die" campaign for Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and company. In this episode of Locked on Oilers, host Nick Zararis breaks down the good, the bad, and the outright ugly heading into free agency. We look at the bright side first: the much-needed physical and emotional rest for an older, veteran-laden core that has logged nearly 300 games over the last three years—compounded by a grueling Olympic cycle. Plus, we analyze the wave of youth on the horizon, including Matt Savoy’s late-season surge and how the pipeline could unlock the bottom-six forward group. Then, we dive into the burning questions. Why are the Oilers still stuck in "goalie purgatory" with Tristan Jarry? Can the team successfully navigate the baggage brought in by new head coach Mike Babcock, who hasn’t been behind an NHL bench in seven years? With massive uncertainty on the blue line regarding Darnell Nurse’s future and the defense pairings, the Oilers are betting heavy on a pair of fives. Will it pay off, or are they bound for another early playoff exit? 03:44 Olympic impact on NHL season 07:51 Evaluating Player Development and Roles 11:52 Oilers' goalie situation concerns 16:25 Mike Babcock's coaching controversy 19:14 Oilers' offseason challenges and roster 20:26 Lineup Strategy and Player Potential 26:23 Oilers' playoff path challenges 27:14 Oilers' playoff strategy discussion Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Decagon Ready to transform your customer support? Go to decagon.ai/LOCKEDONNHL to get a personalized demo and see what Decagon can do for your team.   FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers have officially extended defenseman Connor Murphy! While earlier moves this week left fans divided, host Nick Zararis breaks down why this extension might just be the stabilizing anchor the Oilers' blueline desperately needs as they navigate massive roster turbulence. In this episode of Locked On Oilers, we dive deep into the analytics, the eye test, and the macro-level vision for a post-Darnell Nurse future. Why does Connor Murphy’s defense-first style translate so well even when playing on struggling teams? We break down the micro-stats, look at his underlying numbers alongside Darnell Nurse from both the regular season and playoffs, and explain how this move impacts upcoming pairings with Jake Walman. Plus, we look at the latest trade rumors surrounding Darnell Nurse and what it means for the Oilers' salary cap space heading into free agency! 04:03 Discussing aging defense first players 08:24 Debate on Connor Murphy's Value 11:14 Connor Murphy extension discussion 14:17 Evaluating Connor Murphy's gameplay 18:40 Oilers game analysis and stats 22:08 Darnell Nurse trade rumors 25:41 Challenges of Playing Under Pressure Why the Connor Murphy extension is worth the role of the dice | The Oilers changing defense  Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! HimsTo get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL.   Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers have officially hired Mike Babcock as their new head coach—and this decision is an absolute disaster. In this bonus edition of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis breaks down why Stan Bowman, Daryl Katz, and the Oilers' leadership have made a compounding error that could derail the franchise just as they are running out of time to secure a Connor McDavid extension. From a laundry list of on-the-record player allegations to being tactically left behind by a rapidly changing NHL, we analyze why Babcock is the wrong man for the job, both morally and strategically. 04:10 Discussing Mike Babcock's controversial reputation 06:35 Mike Babcock criticism and second chances 13:06 Changing NHL Leadership Dynamics 15:59 NHL coaching and goalie stats 19:10 Mike Babcock's coaching comeback 20:51 Discussing Mike Babcock's coaching future 25:26 Frustration with Oilers' Roster Choices 27:55 Expressing disappointment with coach hiring Why Hiring Mike Babcock is a MASSIVE Mistake for the Edmonton Oilers Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! HimsTo get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL.   Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers are entering a critical offseason landscape defined by rising salary caps and star players leveraging their way to new teams. With free agency looking lackluster, host Nick Zararis breaks down 9 potential trade targets across three tiers—Buy Low, Shake Things Up, and Franchise Shifting—that could elevate the Oilers back to Stanley Cup contenders. From long-term replacements for veteran depth to high-risk goaltending gambles and franchise-altering defensive pieces, we dive into the logistics, cap impacts, and roster fits for Edmonton. 05:04 Mason McTavish trade potential 08:35 Ice time and potential trades 12:17 Exploring the Oilers' trade market 14:57 Evaluating potential goalie trades 18:25 Analyzing potential player trades 22:02 Offseason strategy and expectations 25:33 Larkin's potential team moves 29:07 Blues' team transition discussion 9 Targets To Save The Edmonton Oilers Contender Status Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! HimsTo get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL.   Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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)   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is history repeating itself in Edmonton? In this episode of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis breaks down his instant reaction to the Edmonton Oilers signing 30-year-old forward Jason Dickinson to a massive five-year contract extension worth $4 million per year. While Dickinson is a perfectly serviceable, defense-first third-line center , giving five years of term to a depth player turning 31 this summer is a massive gamble. Nick explains exactly why these types of "golden parachute" contracts rarely age well in today's NHL salary cap environment and how it limits the team's window of contention. We take a 10,000-foot view of the Oilers' fatal roster construction issues. From Stan Bowman's refusal to embrace a proper development year for young stars like Matt Savoy and Ike Howard , to the looming questions surrounding Mike Babcock , and a goaltending situation that remains a total disaster—the Oilers are trying to "defense" their way to a championship in an era where offense wins games. Are they wasting the peak years of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl by putting all the heavy lifting back on their shoulders? 06:26 Building a solid third line 07:46 Evaluating Player Longevity and Value 12:10 Discussing Jason Dickinson contract extension 15:35 Discussing Jason Dickinson's playoff role 20:35 Discussing Oilers' team strategy 21:48 Discussing team depth issues 26:21 Comparing current NHL player performances 29:33 Oilers' roster and performance issues Why the Jason Dickinson extension is a massive risk for the Oilers Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Decagon Ready to transform your customer support? Go to decagon.ai/LOCKEDONNHL to get a personalized demo and see what Decagon can do for your team.   RugietGet 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhlRugiet. Performance medicine for men. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.  Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers are making major waves in the NHL headlines, from a potential Mike Babcock hiring to massive Darnell Nurse trade rumors.  In today’s episode, host Nick Zararis breaks down the shocking reports from Emily Kaplan and Elliot Friedman indicating that the NHL has cleared the path for the Edmonton Oilers to hire Mike Babcock. We dive deep into why the NHL won't block the move , look back at Babcock’s controversial past in Toronto and Columbus , and discuss why this hiring could turn into an unmitigated disaster for McDavid, Draisaitl, and the Oilers' championship window. Plus, we reverse-engineer the latest NHL trade market leaks. TSN’s Darren Dreger dropped a massive update linking Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse to the Pittsburgh Penguins. What would a Nurse-to-Pittsburgh trade look like under Kyle Dubas and Stan Bowman? Are the Oilers about to get stuck taking back Ryan Graves' bad contract? Finally, we round out the show with a massive league-wide NHL trade market recap. We analyze the Toronto Maple Leafs' mind-boggling 8-year extension for Darren Raddysh , and the recent Leafs-Flyers trade involving Joseph Woll, Simon Benoit, and Samuel Ersson 03:05 NHL avoiding court with Babcock 08:39 Concerns about rehiring Mike Babcock 15:09 Penguins trade interest in Darnell Nurse 18:09 Oilers' trade and contract concerns 23:53 Overvaluing a Breakout Season 26:16 Evaluating Leafs' management and future 29:17 Joining the Everyday Club Oilers cleared to hire Mike Babcock | Is Darnell Nurse on his way to Pittsburgh? Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Decagon Ready to transform your customer support? Go to decagon.ai/LOCKEDONNHL to get a personalized demo and see what Decagon can do for your team.   RugietGet 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhlRugiet. Performance medicine for men. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.  Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Carolina Hurricanes are the 2026 Stanley Cup Champions, cementing themselves as one of the most unconventional cup-winning rosters of the modern NHL salary cap era. On today’s edition of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis breaks down the massive fallout from the Stanley Cup Final and unpacks the exact blueprints, principles, and roster-building lessons the Edmonton Oilers must steal from Carolina to build a sustainable championship contender.  Unlike traditional champions anchored by future Hall of Fame superstars or elite number-one centers, Eric Tulsky and the Hurricanes front office built a "weakness-free" roster defined by historical 5-on-5 dominance and elite four-line depth. We dive deep into the numbers behind Carolina's postseason run—outscoring opponents 46 to 28 at even strength—and how pieces like Nikolai Ehlers, K'Andre Miller, Sean Walker, and Taylor Hall completely transformed this team.  Plus, we look at the striking roster-building parallels between the Hurricanes and the NBA's New York Knicks, discussing how both front offices accurately identified their core's limitations and went all-in on elite depth over top-heavy stars. Finally, we apply these takeaways directly to the Edmonton Oilers' offseason. From moving on from heavy contracts to finding the next Logan Stankoven or Jackson Blake, how can the Oilers augment the core of Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Zach Hyman, and Evan Bouchard with a championship-caliber supporting cast?    05:11 Carolina Hurricanes' roster strategy 08:06 Hurricanes roster and front office strategy 12:42 Lessons from Carolina Hurricanes 17:26 Carolina Hurricanes' team depth 20:37 Carolina wins second Stanley Cup 24:54 Trade and team rotation strategy 26:49 Carolina's financial strategy and options 29:35 Join Everyday Air Club How The Carolina Hurricanes Just Changed The NHL Forever (And What The Oilers MUST Learn!) Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Decagon Ready to transform your customer support? Go to decagon.ai/LOCKEDONNHL to get a personalized demo and see what Decagon can do for your team.   RugietGet 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhlRugiet. Performance medicine for men. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.  Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers and Darnell Nurse are officially ready for a change of scenery. On this Monday edition of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis breaks down the mounting frustrations surrounding Nurse, his current workload, and why the Oilers media and coaching staff believe his time in Edmonton might be coming to an end.    While physical traits like his size, 74th-percentile skating speed, and 80th-percentile shot power make him a general manager's dream on paper, his lack of hockey instincts and struggle to adapt to a defense-first role have made him one of the most polarizing players on the roster. We dive deep into his 19:14 even-strength ice time, his disappearing power-play role behind Evan Bouchard and Jake Walman, and his tough minutes away from Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.  Plus, we look at the blueprint of past Stanley Cup champions (like Ryan McDonough, Aaron Ekblad, and Jay Bouwmeester) to define exactly what kind of overqualified, elite number-three defenseman the Oilers need to target if they want to reopen their championship window. Can players already on the roster like Connor Murphy, Ty Emberson, or Jake Walman step up, or do the Oilers need to make a massive splash in the trade market? 05:55 Evan Bouchard's evolving role 07:53 Darnell Nurse's Defensive Struggles 12:54 Player potential and support systems 15:41 Adjusting to Defensive Roles in Hockey 17:02 Evaluating Oilers' Defensive Strategy 20:37 Discussing Oilers' offseason uncertainties 25:03 Ryan McDonough's trade to Lightning 27:59 Signing off and shoutouts Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Decagon Ready to transform your customer support? Go to decagon.ai/LOCKEDONNHL to get a personalized demo and see what Decagon can do for your team.   RugietGet 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhlRugiet. Performance medicine for men. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.  Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome back to Locked On Oilers with your host, Nick Zararis! In today’s episode, we are breaking down why the Edmonton Oilers have officially become the most dramatic, compelling, and narrative-driven team in the NHL entering the 2026 offseason. From a highly activated, die-hard fan base to consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances, the media circus surrounding Edmonton is reaching a boiling point.   In This Episode: The Darnell Nurse Bombshell: Elliot Friedman dropped a massive report revealing that Darnell Nurse has officially submitted a trade list to Stan Bowman and the Oilers front office. We dive into how the organization used local media to launder his exit, the stark contrast between his $9.25M cap hit and locker room reputation, and what this fallout means for the team moving forward. The Mike Babcock Watch: Is Mike Babcock really in the running for the Oilers head coaching job? We address Frank Seravalli's latest reporting regarding a potential NHL Players Association (NHLPA) investigation into Babcock's time with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Why are the Oilers even considering this hire given his controversial track record? 04:36 Discussing Oilers' fan engagement 07:34 Superstar player trade speculations 10:02 Discount code and Stanley Cup chat 13:16 Darnell Nurse's contract debate 16:33 Understanding no trade clauses 21:38 NHL investigation and Babcock controversy 26:36 Skeptical of Bowman and Quinville's efforts 28:01 Addressing bullying in hockey coaching Darnell Nurse Wants OUT & Mike Babcock under investigation Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel.Visithttps://FANDUEL.COMto get started now. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is Mike Babcock actually the answer for the Edmonton Oilers, or is the organization about to make a massive mistake? Welcome back to Locked On Oilers, your daily podcast on the Edmonton Oilers. In today's episode, host Nick Zararis breaks down the shocking, borderline baffling rumors that the Oilers' leadership council—including Connor McDavid—has reportedly met with former NHL head coach Mike Babcock. We dive deep into the psychology behind this potential hire, reverse engineer how the franchise got to this point, and look at why this might be a classic case of corporate overcorrection.   05:01 Evaluating experienced hockey coaches 09:59 Betting on Vegas Golden Knights 12:47 Resentment towards high-paid athletes 14:32 Toronto Maple Leafs team discussion 20:35 Discussing player rankings in sports 22:20 NHL leadership meeting discussion 26:56 Penguins' journey and Oilers' future 28:36 Join the Everyday Club Why Hiring Mike Babcock is a Dangerous Mistake for the Edmonton Oilers Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel.Visithttps://FANDUEL.COMto get started now. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On today’s episode of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis pulls no punches as he breaks down the "mind-bogglingly stupid" rumors linking the Edmonton Oilers to controversial head coach Mike Babcock. With the 2025-26 Stanley Cup Final wrapping up and the Oilers' contention window rapidly closing, the front office appears to be entering a state of pure desperation. Nick dives deep into why turning over the remainder of Connor McDavid’s prime to Stan Bowman and Mike Babcock is a recipe for disaster. We unpack the pure hockey metrics—including how flawed Babcock's previous Toronto Maple Leafs teams actually were defensively—and re-litigate the troubling history of off-ice baggage from his tenures in Detroit, Toronto, and Columbus. Is this a move driven entirely by player demand to appease Connor McDavid before his looming 2027 July 1st contract leverage timeline? And why hasn't anyone in the Oilers organization stepped up to say no? 05:20 Dealing with Setbacks in Life 07:17 Comparing Batman and Oilers' desperation 13:11 NHL coaching careers and controversies 14:09 Controversies during Babcock's Detroit tenure 19:23 Privacy concerns in sports teams 21:57 Criticism of Mike Babcock's Coaching 26:58 Discussing team decisions with McDavid 28:49 Criticism of Oilers' coaching decision Mind-Bogglingly Stupid : Why the Oilers MUST Avoid Mike Babcock Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel.Visithttps://FANDUEL.COMto get started now. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is the era of the workhorse, franchise "Bell Cow" NHL goaltender officially over?  Welcome back to another episode of Locked On Oilers! In today’s episode, host Nick Zararis breaks down a massive shift happening across the NHL landscape. Looking closely at the recent Stanley Cup Playoffs, a shocking trend has emerged: you don't need an elite, high-priced franchise goalie to compete for a Stanley Cup anymore.  We dive deep into the fascinating history and evolution of the position—from the Original Six era when teams only dressed one goalie , to Cam Talbot being potentially the last goaltender to ever hit 70 starts in a season back in 2017. But more importantly, we look at the data from the first round of the playoffs, where the team with the goalie who made fewer regular-season starts won 6 out of the 8 series! What does this mean for elite net minders like Andre Vasilevsky, Igor Shesterkin, and Ilya Sorokin? And why are modern NHL environmental factors shifting the game completely toward high-octane offense? 05:23 Trend of shorter competitive goalies 08:30 Comparing playoff goalies' careers 10:29 Energy shots and podcast promotion 16:49 NHL possession strategies and goalies 18:41 Building Teams Around Average Goalies 23:44 The challenges of relying on goalies 26:20 NHL team strategies and trades 28:20 Closing remarks and sign-off Are Franchise Goalies Dead? Inside the NHL’s New Goalie World Order! Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel.Visithttps://FANDUEL.COMto get started now. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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)       Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Did the Edmonton Oilers value sentimentality and continuity over actually winning a Stanley Cup? Welcome back to another Monday edition of Locked On Oilers! In today’s episode, host Nick Zararis steps into the "Hindsight Machine" to travel back to the summer of 2025 and deeply re-evaluate the critical front-office decisions that shaped the 2025-2026 Edmonton Oilers season. Coming off back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances in 2024 and 2025, General Manager Stan Bowman and the front office faced massive leverage points. Did they push the ball forward, or did they fall into the trap of overvaluing familiar faces? We break down the massive financial commitments that are now acting as net negatives on the cap—including the 8-year extension for Trent Frederick, Jake Walman's hefty contract, and how the team managed the fallout of losing Evander Kane's grit. Plus, we look at the goaltending tandem of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard and wonder: What if the Oilers had signed Alex Lyon on Day 1 of free agency instead? As the 2026 NHL Free Agency and trade window looms on the horizon this July, what core thesis and lessons must Jeff Jackson, Stan Bowman, and Kris Knoblauch apply to elevate this roster to the next level? 04:46 Oilers' struggle with nostalgia 07:46 Decision-making in sports negotiations 10:39 Lockdown Oilers offseason chat 15:16 Oilers sign Trent Frederic 19:06 Discussing recent player contract evaluations 22:04 Oilers' lineup challenges in 2024 25:47 Evaluating Oilers' goaltending decisions 28:05 Oilers' questionable contract decisions Stan Bowman’s BIGGEST Mistakes: Re-Evaluating the 2025-26 Edmonton Oilers Offseason Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel.Visithttps://FANDUEL.COMto get started now. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Darnell Nurse era in Edmonton is officially coming to an end. On today's episode of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis breaks down a massive, groundbreaking report from Sportsnet’s Mark Spector: the Edmonton Oilers are actively beginning to work on a Darnell Nurse exit strategy. Nick dives deep into what this means for the team's blue line, the front office strategy under Stan Bowman, and why this report is one of the most stinging indictments of an NHL player’s hockey instincts you will ever see from team-affiliated media. We wind the clock back to the chaotic 2021 flat-cap environment to analyze the exact economic factors, desperate management decisions by Ken Holland, and external forces (like the Oscar Klefbom injury) that forced the Oilers to hand Nurse his massive $9.25M long-term extension. Finally, we look at the crucial management lessons to be learned from this contract, how Evan Bouchard's elite development changed everything, and how the Oilers plan to unwind this tricky salary cap position before Nurse’s modified no-trade clause kicks in.   06:04 Darnell Nurse's contract issues 07:08 Oilers acknowledge need for improvement 13:29 NHL revenue and ticket sales 14:38 Impact of closed-door playoffs 20:11 ED treatment with HIMS 23:40 Importance of Offensive Defensemen 26:31 Evaluating player value and roles 28:15 Oilers defense strategy discussion Oilers Working on Darnell Nurse EXIT Strategy | Why it took so long and what happens next Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! HimsTo get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL. Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers possess the ultimate luxury of building around two future Hall of Famers in Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. But as both superstars prepare to enter their 30s and embark on their second decade in the NHL, a critical question looms: How long can Edmonton sustain a championship window around them? In today’s episode of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis breaks down the realities of NHL superstar aging curves and what they mean for the Oilers' long-term planning. We analyze how player value peaks early in hockey compared to other sports, why the rapidly expanding $104 million salary cap changes the roster-building equation, and how statistical trends show veteran stars evolving defensively later in their careers. To put McDavid and Draisaitl’s futures into perspective, we compare their trajectories to contemporary icons and legends who played through their 30s—including Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, Patrick Kane, Evgeni Malkin, Nikita Kucherov, and John Tavares. Can the Oilers replicate the Pittsburgh Penguins' blueprint by finding internal depth pieces to ignite a second wave of contention before time runs out? Plus, we look at the crucial role of the Oilers' supporting cast—from Evan Bouchard and Zach Hyman to Vasili Podkolzin—and debate whether the front office's win-now short-sightedness is hindering the development of the franchise's youngest assets 04:52 Discussing NHL player aging and contracts 07:28 Impact of Player Value on Team Dynamics 13:20 Oilers urgency with McDavid and Draisaitl 14:59 Analyzing Crosby's scoring consistency 17:34 Penguins players' career performance 21:06 Oilers' reliance on McDavid and Draisaitl 24:32 Pod Colson's future with the team 27:46 Discussing player longevity and performance Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! HimsTo get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL. Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are the Edmonton Oilers still genuine Stanley Cup contenders, or are they a fading group falling back into the NHL’s middle class? In this Wednesday edition of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis takes a hard, realistic look at the current state of the NHL hierarchy and where the Oilers truly stand after being eliminated for six weeks. With the Stanley Cup Final officially underway between the Vegas Golden Knights and Carolina Hurricanes, we evaluate the gap between the true elite tier and Edmonton's current roster. Nick breaks down the entire league into three tiers—the genuine Cup caliber teams, the volatile middle class, and the lottery-bound organizations —explaining why high-end talent like Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evan Bouchard can keep the Oilers out of the lottery, but why they desperately need more support to actually make a deep postseason run. We also dive deep into the specific offseason questions keeping GM Stan Bowman awake at night. Who will fill the vacant head coaching seat more than a month after Kris Knoblauch’s firing? Who is Darnell Nurse’s defensive partner next year? What is going on with the goaltending tandem alongside Tristan Jarry? If the Oilers want to compete with the depth of teams like Vegas, they have massive holes to plug. 04:06 Talking about NHL team performance 06:43 NHL teams roster challenges 12:16 Oilers coaching situation update 15:58 Capitals' and other teams' prospects 17:00 Discussing NHL team performances 20:46 Running your own race vs. competition 24:58 Analyzing Oilers' Future Prospects 27:08 Edmonton Oilers' team needs Everydayer ClubJoin the Everydayer Club for ad-free audio, access to our group chat on Discord, and more. Use code DEADLINE ahead of the trade deadline for one month free. Tap here to learn more: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl. Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game.   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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

With a mediocre free agent class on the horizon, host Nick Zararis breaks down why Edmonton must look to the trade market to fix their roster. In this episode of Locked On Oilers, we dive deep into the complex systems of NHL trades, how general managers lose their leverage out of desperation, and how you can reverse engineer trade rumors to separate fact from absolute nonsense. Plus, we look back at the Tristan Jarry trade as a textbook example of poor leverage management and look ahead at the exact goalie targets and RFA swings Stan Bowman and management should entertain this offseason. 06:08 Oilers' goalie trade challenges 08:47 Oilers' risky goalie decisions 12:35 Promoting Game Time ticket app 13:47 Discussing trade markets and free agency 17:53 Florida Panthers' 2023 playoff journey 21:14 Oilers offseason moves and strategy 23:50 Concerns about Oilers' goalie choices 29:10 Signing RFA players for Oilers Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! HimsTo get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL. Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The NHL salary cap just jumped to $104 MILLION — and every single team in the league is swimming in money. So why is the 2026 NHL free agent class one of the weakest in recent memory? And what does that mean for the Edmonton Oilers heading into the offseason? In this episode of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Sarras breaks down the full NHL free agency landscape from the macro economics to the Oilers' specific roster needs — and why the flood of cap money actually makes free agency MORE dangerous, not less. NHL Free Agency 2026: Why Every Team Has HUGE Money & What It Means for the Edmonton Oilers   05:30 Cap space dynamics in NHL trades 07:25 NHL player trade strategies 11:18 NHL's financial challenges during COVID 14:00 Oilers' lineup changes and free agents 17:54 Discussing potential player trades 22:00 Risky free agent signings 23:15 Understanding world-class athlete instincts 26:53 Evaluating NHL Defenseman Options   Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! HimsTo get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL. Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers have all the star power, but do they have the blueprint for a Stanley Cup championship? In this episode, we wrap up our "Contender Series" by dissecting exactly what separates the perennial playoff hopefuls from the final four teams in the NHL. We take a deep dive into the organizational failures and tactical shifts that the Oilers must address this offseason to move from "contender" to "champion."     06:16 Evaluating team management and trades 07:27 Evaluating Player Usage and Strategy 12:07 Evolving coaching philosophies 14:32 Optimizing player line combinations 20:46 Evaluating player potential in hockey 22:26 Discussing player roles in hockey 26:06 Mental challenges in professional hockey 28:21 Transitioning to NHL offseason   The "Contender Trap": What the Oilers Must Change to Win the Stanley Cup   Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon RugietGet 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What can a powerhouse team like the Edmonton Oilers learn from a rebuilding-turned-contender squad like the Montreal Canadiens? More than you think. In this Thursday edition of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis continues the Final Four comparison series by diving deep into the massive gap in organizational coherence between Edmonton and Montreal. While the Oilers have stacked individual talent like Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evan Bouchard, they are treating roster construction like a simple math problem—ignoring how those pieces actually fit together. Meanwhile, Montreal’s leadership triad of Jeff Gorton, Kent Hughes, and Marty St. Louis has established a flawless, metronomic blueprint for player optimization and development that Edmonton desperately needs to replicate. From the misuse of free agents like Jeff Skinner and Andrew Mangiapane to the short leashes on top prospects, we break down why the Oilers are in a synchronized panic and how they can fix it before the window slams shut 05:11 Hiring Jeff Gorton for rebuild 07:22 Montreal's long-term rebuilding plan 11:56 Coaching young NHL players 14:58 Oilers' roster and coaching challenges 18:06 Team Strategy and Player Development 20:38 Promoting ED treatment and tips 25:51 Player lineup and performance challenges 26:57 Oilers player management issues The SHOCKING Lesson The Edmonton Oilers MUST Learn From The Montreal Canadiens Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon RugietGet 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Carolina Hurricanes went up 2-1 in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Montreal Canadiens on Monday night. What can the Edmonton Oilers learn from a team that thrives on a specific, hard-working identity? In this Wednesday edition of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis continues the playoff comparison series by breaking down how the Hurricanes have sustained a window of contention. We dive deep into how a great coach and a phenomenal system can unlock a franchise's full potential 05:03 Discussing Carolina Hurricanes' System Success 07:34 Oilers' player fit criticisms 10:57 Join the Everydayer Club 15:12 Challenges of Modern NHL Defensemen 19:11 Carolina maximizing value decisions 22:43 Cost-cutting and front office changes 25:29 Goaltending strategy and team flexibility 28:22 Carolina Hurricanes' effective lineup depth What the Oilers MUST Learn From the Carolina Hurricanes' Success Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon RugietGet 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men. 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)   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Colorado Avalanche showcase the blueprint for sustained NHL success can the Edmonton Oilers adapt before their window closes? Nick Zararis breaks down the Avalanche’s post-Stanley Cup evolution, highlighting how Colorado weathered the loss of key players like Gabriel Landeskog and Nazam Kadri, revamped their roster through strategic trades, and made tough calls such as moving on from Mikko Rantanen. Core stars Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar anchor Colorado’s resilience, while smart acquisitions and cap space management keep the Avalanche in Cup contention.    Key topics include the Oilers’ aging core, incremental improvement strategies, and the critical importance of goaltending upgrades. Will Edmonton learn from Colorado’s aggressive mindset and commitment to continuous roster optimization, or risk falling into the dreaded “middle ground” of the NHL hierarchy? Don’t miss this essential analysis of how playoff teams stay at the top. 03:33 Post-Stanley Cup roster challenges 07:45 Using cap space as a strategy 10:52 Learning from Successful Teams 14:48 Colorado playoff challenges and team dynamics 16:36 Managing an aging hockey team 21:40 Building on Stanley Cup success 24:42 Challenges of Maintaining Contender Status 27:19 Risks of aggressive team management     CONTENDER MINDSET: Colorado Avalanche’s ROSTER CREATES a Future Roadmap for Connor McDavid Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon RugietGet 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Vegas Golden Knights have been one of the NHL's best teams since entering the league, and the Edmonton Oilers could learn a thing or two from their ruthless operations. In today's episode of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis kicks off a series comparing the final four playoff teams to see how Edmonton can improve its roster-building strategy. We dive deep into why the Golden Knights' lack of sentimentality has kept them at the top of the NHL pecking order, from aggressively trading prospects to moving on from fan-favorite veterans and goalies. Are the Oilers holding onto players like Stuart Skinner and Darnell Nurse for too long? 05:29 Golden Knights' expansion strategy 08:05 Golden Knights team evolution and roster 11:31 Oilers' offseason strategy critique 15:23 Developing Young Talent in NHL 16:52 Edmonton Oilers development strategy 22:59 Problems with Oilers' goalie situation 27:37 Evaluating young player strategies 28:51 Oilers' strategy and league decisions What the Edmonton Oilers MUST Learn From Vegas' RUTHLESS Roster Strategy Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon RugietGet 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What is the absolute best-case scenario for the Edmonton Oilers this offseason? Host Nick Zararis breaks down how the Oilers can navigate their $16.48M in cap space, secure the perfect head coach, and make the drastic roster changes needed to return to true contender status First, we tackle the single most pressing need in Edmonton: hiring the right head coach. From the unprecedented statements made by the NHL Coaches Association to the logistics of a potential Bruce Cassidy hire, we look at why tactical and ideological alignment with GM Stan Bowman is crucial for player buy-in. Then, we dive into the bookkeeping. With 10 free agents on the radar and $16.48M to play with, how can the Oilers stretch their dollars? We discuss the future of UFAs like Adam Henrique, Jason Dickinson, and Kasperi Kapanen, and explain why bringing back Connor Murphy might be the only way to stabilize Darnell Nurse’s pairing. Finally, we explore the "dream scenario" trades required to shed massive salary cap hits including the contracts of Darnell Nurse and Tristan Jarry to open up the flexibility needed to land elite talent 04:37 Coaching candidate interviews via Zoom 07:13 Addressing GM and coach alignment 12:11 Discussing Oilers' off-season plans 14:00 Discussing player contract decisions 17:03 Discussing Darnell Nurse's contract 20:19 Fruity Rainbow energy shot benefits 23:39 Oilers' goalie salary concerns 27:55 Future concerns for Oilers' roster   The Dream Offseason Blueprint for the Edmonton Oilers   Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl. 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)   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers are officially hunting for a new head coach after firing Kris Knoblauch. With Connor McDavid entering the final years of his contract, the next coaching hire will completely define the future of the franchise. In today's episode, Nick Zararis breaks down the exact coaching archetypes available, why Kris Knoblauch's tenure ended, and the massive risks facing the Oilers in the 2026-27 season. Are the Oilers shopping for a "Manager" like Craig Berube or Bruce Cassidy, or do they need a completely different tactical mind? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below   1:43 - The Role of a Modern NHL Head Coach 5:10 - Handling the Media & Public Relations  6:56 - Analyzing the Coaching Market Fit  9:11 - Why the Oilers Fired Kris Knoblauch  11:09 - The 3 Coaching Archetypes: The Builder  12:47 - The 3 Coaching Archetypes: The Manager (Berube, Cassidy, Laviolette)  14:46 - The 3 Coaching Archetypes: The Cornerstone  15:42 - Commercial Break: Gametime App  18:46 - The 10-Year Connor McDavid Timeline  Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers have reportedly received permission to interview former Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube. But is he actually the right man to get Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl over the finish line?  On today’s episode of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis breaks down the shocking underlying numbers from Berube’s 10-year coaching ledger across Philadelphia, St. Louis, and Toronto. While Berube has a Stanley Cup ring from the 2019 St. Louis Blues, we look at why his old-school, aggressive two-man forecheck system might completely backfire with the current Oilers roster. From the "new coach bump" reality to the scary parallels between Edmonton's current position and Toronto’s recent collapse, find out why hiring a Maple Leafs cast-off could cause the wheels to fall off in Edmonton. Plus, an update on the ongoing game of chicken with the Vegas Golden Knights over Bruce Cassidy! 04:49 Craig Berube's playing style 06:29 Craig Berube's coaching challenges 11:35 Discussing coaching styles and challenges 14:14 Evolution of defensive roles in hockey 18:05 Craig Berube's defensive strategy 22:28 Coaching rumors and contract issues 24:23 Struggles with team management and coaching 27:53 Connor McDavid's impact on Oilers Why Hiring Craig Berube Is a MASSIVE Mistake for the Edmonton Oilers Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-oilers/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl. 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)     Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Vegas Golden Knights are reportedly playing hardball about letting Bruce Cassidy interview for new jobs. However, the Edmonton Oilers should keep trying. On today's episode of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis breaks down why Bruce Cassidy is the exact type of fiery, defense-first coach this roster needs.  We dive deep into his Stanley Cup-winning pedigree, his incredible underlying analytics in Boston and Vegas, and whether he can bring Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl's defensive games to an elite level. With McDavid's free agency looming in 2028, this is no time for the weary 01:05 - Bruce Cassidy's Career Track Record & Stanley Cup  07:11 - Why the Oilers Need an "Old School" Coach 12:53 - The Elite Underlying Analytics in Boston & Vegas 18:42 - Can Cassidy Fix the Oilers' Defense?  20:27 - Oilers Coaching Search Updates & Craig Berube  27:24 - Final Thoughts: Hire Bruce Cassidy The Edmonton Oilers in former Vegas Golden Knights' head coach Bruce Cassidy continues to be rebuffed  Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-oilers/ Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers faced a massive roster crunch and took on way too much risk this past year. Host Nick Zararis breaks down exactly where things went wrong and the hard lessons the front office MUST learn moving forward In this episode, we dive into the struggles of Darnell Nurse and Stuart Skinner, discussing the challenges of teaching "old dogs new tricks" and how poor defense and goaltending interconnected to sink the season. We also examine the massive roster turnover that saw almost half the forward group leave , and whether the gambles on players like Trent Frederic, Ty Emberson, and Matt Savoie actually paid off. Finally, what does Kris Knoblauch's firing mean for the team, and how can the Oilers bounce back from their disastrous first-round playoff loss to the Ducks? 04:34 Building a competitive team 06:53 Evaluating player contracts and performances 10:03 Betting on Avalanche vs. Golden Knights 15:53 Potential market for Skinner 19:24 Reflection on Oilers' current struggles 21:43 Struggles with traditional schooling 24:27 Analyzing player performance and strategy 26:42 Oilers' roster strategy adjustments The Edmonton Oilers Learned a HARSH Lesson This Season Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers have a behind-the-scenes power struggle playing out, and things are starting to get ugly. On this Thursday edition of Locked on Oilers, host Nick Zararis breaks down the messy situation unfolding in Edmonton's front office. We dive deep into the theory of leverage in sports management and how it applies to Stan Bowman and Kris Knoblauch. Are the Oilers about to fire Knoblauch? We analyze the conflicting reports surrounding Bruce Cassidy's potential arrival and discuss why keeping Knoblauch in the dark is a terrible look for the organization. Plus, we look at roster issues, including Darnell Nurse's ongoing defensive struggles and the team's failure to meet their "Cup or Bust" expectations 03:29 Spending initial political capital 09:00 Taking a break for an ad 11:32 Anaheim Ducks Stanley Cup odds 16:04 Discussing disappointing player performances 17:51 Oilers' risky contracts and scouting 22:25 Bruce Cassidy's job prospects 25:14 Coaching changes and career transitions 28:02 Discussing Oilers coaching decisions The Edmonton Oilers' Power Struggle is Getting UGLY  Everydayer ClubJoin the Everydayer Club for ad-free audio, access to our group chat on Discord, and more. Use code DEADLINE ahead of the trade deadline for one month free. Tap here to learn more: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl. Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers offseason is fully coming into picture. The team has a one year audition to woo Connor McDavid into another extension, $16 million in cap space, in a rising cap environment and several open roster spots going into the summer.  Host Nick Zararis goes position by position through the Oilers' forward group identifies the holes, evaluates the returning pieces and starts the conversation as to what an improved supporting cast for next season looks like. What is covered in this episode: Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl together at 5-on-5 — why they outscored opponents just 18-16 this season compared to a 64% combined goal share over the previous two years, and what that decline actually means for how Kris Knoblauch deployed them Zach Hyman — why Nick considers him one of the best unrestricted free agent signings of the salary cap era and what a realistic production floor looks like as he enters his mid-30s Ryan Nugent-Hopkins — the uncomfortable conversation about whether Edmonton's longest-tenured star is still a first-line player, and why a third-line role with softer competition might actually unlock more value from him Vasily Podkolzin and Leon Draisaitl — why this pairing was the Oilers' best forward duo against the Anaheim Ducks and why it is non-negotiable going into next season Kasperi Kapanen — what a realistic market looks like for him as an unrestricted free agent, whether the Oilers can afford to bring him back, and why sentimentality cannot drive the decision Jack Roslovic — why three career playoff goals in 51 playoff games makes him a plug-and-play mercenary and not a player worth a four or five year commitment, regardless of his regular season numbers Matt Savoie — what his one point in six playoff games at 14:17 average ice time actually tells you, and whether he has a realistic path into the top six next season Ike Howard — why he is simultaneously the Oilers' most interesting internal option and their most liquid trade asset, and how Kris Knoblauch's track record with skill wingers in the bottom six complicates his future in Edmonton Darnell Nurse at $9.25 million — why Nick believes that number is functionally untenable on a roster that needs to pay for offense, and what a retention trade might actually look like Jason Dickinson — why paying a defensive-minded center unrestricted free agent money is a trap the Oilers cannot afford to fall into The Matthew Tkachuk trade comparison — why the Oilers do not have a Jonathan Huberdeau or Mackenzie Weegar equivalent, and why chasing a blockbuster trade is probably not the answer Quinn Hughes and the $20 million defenseman era — what the coming cap inflation means for how Edmonton values every contract it signs this summer The two-year horizon — why the summer of 2028 represents a near-total roster reset, and why every decision made now needs to account for what the Oilers look like when almost every contract outside of Evan Bouchard and Leon Draisaitl comes off the books 05:27 Defensive challenges and player stats 07:09 Oilers' strategy with McDavid and Draisaitl 12:09 Discussing Oilers' off-season plans 15:06 Hyman's current and future performance 19:21 Evaluating team roster needs 23:29 Nugent Hopkins' future role 24:39 Managing player roles and strategies 28:43 Evaluating Oilers' trade options Edmonton Oilers Offseason Roster Breakdown: Who Stays, Who Goes, and What Still Needs to Be Fixed Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Hims To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL. Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. 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Connor McDavid has been the world's best hockey player for almost the entirety of his entire NHL career. At age 29, the forward is approaching the end of his physical prime and the Edmonton Oilers need a plan to maximize his value to stay competitive.  On this episode, host Nick Zararis explores the aging curves for superstar players including: Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Alex Ovechkin Patrick Kane, Steven Stamkos, and Corey Perry to provide context for McDavid's future. In addition, Nick explores how teams like the Pittsburgh Penguins and Tampa Bay Lightning were able to reinforce their franchise players with quality young depth over time to ultimately win Stanley Cups. 05:37 Evaluating player performance and potential 08:44 Ovechkin and Crosby's Performance Analysis 11:48 Finding the right hire with Indeed 13:35 Understanding hockey analytics basics 17:36 Evaluating McDavid's Peak Performance 20:51 Discussing Connor McDavid's future with Oilers 25:06 Penguins' contention window discussed 28:22 Finding young talent for the future What history says about Connor McDavid's aging curve | How the Oilers can maximize his value Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Hims To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL. Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! Rocket MoneyLet Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join athttp://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers did not just lose players this season. They lost coherence. General Manager Stan Bowman and Head Coach Kris Knoblauch were never philosophically aligned and player after player paid the price for it. Nick Zararis breaks down the structural problem at the root of Edmonton's collapse, and why fixing the roster without fixing the leadership dynamic first is a dead end. In this episode: What philosophical alignment actually means in the NHL — why a General Manager's roster vision and a Head Coach's deployment system have to match, and what happens over a full season when they do not The Jeff Skinner and Victor Arvidsson case study — two players signed by interim General Manager Jeff Jackson who did not fit what Kris Knoblauch wanted to run, and how that same disconnect carried into Stan Bowman's tenure The Trent Frederic example in plain numbers — a player whose career high in average ice time was 13 minutes and 45 seconds per game, who played 11 minutes per game this season, at $3.85 million per year on an eight-year deal, signed before Kris Knoblauch had any input Why the coach-predating-the-GM dynamic is historically rare and almost always damaging — and why Edmonton's version of it was made worse by the timing of Stan Bowman's August 2024 hiring, after the first wave of free agency had already passed The diversity of skill set argument — why the modern NHL requires shooters, passers, forecheckers, and puck carriers at every level of the lineup, and how the Edmonton Oilers have failed to build that across the forward group and defense for three straight seasons The weak link problem — why hockey punishes a bad third-line center or fourth-line winger more severely than any other major sport, and how Edmonton's penalty kill depth collapsed under playoff pressure because of it The Vasily Podkolzin and Kasperi Kapanen success stories — what good alignment looks like when a player's role matches what the coaching staff actually wants, and why those wins were not enough to offset the larger structural failures Why changing the coach without changing the General Manager, or vice versa, likely produces the same misalignment problem in twelve months 00:00 Weekend thoughts on Oilers' struggles 05:41 Coaching challenges with player roles 07:04 Challenges with inexperienced players 12:46 Joining the Everyday Club 16:07 Oilers' player transfer speculation 17:12 Critiquing team management decisions 22:01 Podcast sponsorship message 25:37 Oilers management and roster issues 27:53 Oilers' offseason decisions 30:10 Building a contender efficiently Why the Oilers should clean house | Bowman and Knoblauch should go Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Hims To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL. Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! Rocket MoneyLet Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join athttp://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON   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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Twenty months. Dozens of roster decisions. How many actually made the Edmonton Oilers better? Nick Zararis goes through every major move Stan Bowman has made as Edmonton Oilers General Manager: free agent signings, trades, and contract extensions, grades each one, and explains what it means for the team's future with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl on the clock. What's covered: Free agency grades: Josh Samanski and David Tomasek (smart low-risk gambles), Andrew Mangiapane (a clean miss), John Klingberg (fine), Curtis Lazar (fine), Jack Roslovic (acceptable at the price) Extension grades: Leon Draisaitl at 8 years/$14M (had to be done), Trent Frederick at 8 years/$3.85M (inexcusable), Evan Bouchard at 4 years/$10.5M (fine), Jake Walman at 7 years/$7M (does not look good), Vasily Podkolzin at 3 years/$2.95M (lights out), Mattias Ekholm at 3 years/$4M (concerning for his age)  Trade grades: The Tristan Jarry acquisition (catastrophic miss), the Jake Walman trade for a first-round pick (miss), the Vasily Podkolzin trade for a fourth-round pick (win), the Connor Ingram waiver claim (win), Jason Dickinson and Colton Dach for a first and Andrew Mangiapane (TBD but likely a miss)  Why the NHL is changing: How the league is skewing younger, faster, and more skill-based, and why Bowman's approach of targeting proven veterans at depressed prices hasn't worked in Edmonton  The excess value problem: Why the Oilers' best years came when they had players like Evan Bouchard, Dylan Holloway, and Philip Broberg on cheap deals and how they've lost that edge What $16 million in cap space actually buys: Why it sounds like a lot and isn't, once you factor in goaltending, top-six forwards, and Colton Dach's restricted free agency Every Stan Bowman Trade and Signing Graded: Edmonton Oilers GM Report Card 06:47 Oil's pitch to veteran players 08:56 Critiquing Stan Bowman's decisions 11:42 Using the GameTime app benefits 14:06 Discussing player roles and signings 19:52 Debating Oilers' recent trades 23:24 Discussing GM and coach changes 24:14 Impending McDavid free agency concerns 28:39 Predicting a coaching change Every Stan Bowman Trade and Signing Graded: Edmonton Oilers GM Report Card Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! Rugiet Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men. QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Should Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch keep his job after a first-round exit to the Anaheim Ducks? Nick Zararis breaks down the full case: the numbers, the politics, and the candidates waiting in the wings, to give you the most honest answer you'll hear this offseason. What's covered: Has Kris Knoblauch actually gotten worse results from the Oilers each season? The 3-year even strength decline, explained in plain numbers Why firing a coach in the NHL is more of a political decision than a hockey one — and what that means for General Manager Stan Bowman Bruce Cassidy: Is the Stanley Cup-winning coach really available, and would he actually take the Edmonton job? John Cooper: Why he might be the best coach in the NHL right now — and why that still might not matter for the Oilers Connor McDavid's contract situation in 2027 and how the coaching decision this summer could directly affect it Why Knoblauch's .624 points percentage makes him the best Oilers coach of the 21st century — and why that might not be enough to save his job The Oilers went to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals in 2024 and 2025. They got bounced in Round 1 in 2026. Something has to change 05:12 Intuitive decision-making in hockey 07:55 Discussing player development in hockey 12:19 Evaluating coach influence on Oilers 15:34 Oilers' declining performance metrics 17:51 Oilers' offensive struggles 21:46 Tough decisions as an NHL GM 25:03 Connor McDavid's contract future 29:39 Discussing Knoblauch's future with Oilers 30:24 Promoting Locked On channels The Edmonton Oilers Have Gotten Worse Every Single Year | Here's the Proof Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! Rugiet Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men. QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nick Zararis delivers his full goaltending evaluation of the 2025-26 Edmonton Oilers, breaking down every starter, every failed gamble, and what Stan Bowman must do this offseason to fix the position that cost them the season. Topics Covered: Stuart Skinner — 11-8-4, .891 save percentage, benched two straight playoffs. Is he done in Edmonton? And where does he land as a pending UFA? Tristan Jarry — 9-6-2, .857 save percentage, outplayed by a waiver-wire pickup. Two years and $5.375M remaining. How do the Oilers move him? Connor Ingram — The unlikely best Oiler goalie in 2025-26 with a .899 save percentage and 10.3 goals saved above expected. Is he the answer? Calvin Pickard — Likely at the end of the road as an NHL-caliber option The Jarry trade autopsy — Why trading a goalie with term for a goalie with term was a massive miscalculation by Stan Bowman Free agency targets — Sergei Bobrovsky, Frederik Andersen, Cam Talbot, and the case for each Trade candidates — Filip Gustavsson and Jesper Wallstedt from the Minnesota Wild, Devin Levi from the Buffalo Sabres, Jacob Fowler from the Montreal Canadiens The goalie market explained — Franchise tier (Igor Shesterkin, Connor Hellebuyck, Andrei Vasilevsky, Juuse Saros, Ilya Sorokin) vs. what the Oilers can actually afford $16.48M in cap space — What the Oilers can realistically do and why moving Jarry is the key to unlocking the offseason 06:36 Path to becoming an NHL goalie 09:53 Introducing sponsor: Quo for business communication 13:38 Discussing team goaltending volatility 16:04 Skinner's performance and challenges 19:58 Evaluating Oilers' Stanley Cup chances 22:22 Evaluating Oilers' playoff performance 25:19 Discussing goalie expectations and comparisons 29:57 Oilers' goalie concerns for future 32:01 Podcast and YouTube recommendations The Oilers' bottom-six goal share without Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl collapsed to under 40% this year. No goalie in that situation was going to cover for it — but .857 save percentage made a bad situation catastrophic. Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! Rugiet Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men. QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl.   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)   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers' defense was exposed in the playoffs, and the massive contracts of Darnell Nurse and Jake Walman are creating a salary cap nightmare   On today’s Locked On Oilers, Nick Zararis evaluates the state of the Edmonton Oilers' blue line following their first-round exit against the Ducks. From the evolving speed of the NHL to the severe limitations of the current defensive core, this offseason evaluation leaves no stone unturned. We break down the struggles of the Evan Bouchard and Mattias Ekholm pairing while dealing with Connor McDavid's foot injury. Finally, we dive into the Darnell Nurse conundrum and why his $9.25M cap hit is an anchor, plus the alarming underlying numbers behind Jake Walman's seven-year deal. 05:45 Discussing Ekholm-Bouchard defensive pairing 06:59 Oilers defensive struggles in playoffs 13:09 Highest paid NHL defensemen 14:45 Darnell Nurse's career year factors 19:56 Promoting Indeed Sponsored Jobs 22:19 Evaluating Jake Walman's role 24:20 Evaluating Jake Wallman's performance 28:17 Concerns about team's defense The Darnell Nurse Conundrum: Can The Oilers Fix Their Defense? Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! Rugiet Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men. QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers failed to live up to expectations in 2026. Chief amongst their problems in a first round exit was a top heavy forward group. While Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl were their usual sublime selves, cracks are beginning to show on the edges.  Topics covered include:  •Diversity in skillsets: Did the Oilers have too much of the same thing up front?  •The waning depth: For three straight years, the split between the top six and bottom six goal share has declined  •Gambles that don't pay off: The Oilers came into the year with more uncertainty than years past and got burned  05:13 Oilers' challenges in tight games  08:50 Impact players in the NHL  11:32 Discussing Oilers' 5 on 5 play  17:14 Offense strategies and styles  27:34 Analyzing Oilers' scoring stats  29:58 Intro and podcast recommendations Why the Edmonton Oilers Forward Group Failed in 2026 — And What Needs to Change Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! Rugiet Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men. QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go tohttp://Quo.com/lockedonnhl. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Season is Over. The Edmonton Oilers have been eliminated from the NHL Playoffs in Game 6 by the Anaheim Ducks. In this "morbid elimination Friday" edition of Locked On Oilers, Nick Zararis sifts through the debris of a series where the Oilers simply "didn't have it" In Today's Episode: The Fatal Flaw: Why a lack of foot speed and mobility throughout the lineup became the Oilers' undoing against a fast Ducks team Star Performance: We look at why Connor McDavid was outscored 7-3 in the series and the impact of his ankle injury Defensive Struggles: Analysis of why Evan Bouchard and Mattias Ekholm couldn't meet the transition standards required to win The Big Picture: Is this version of the Oilers still a contender, or are they now a "fringe team" facing an offseason of "awkward conversations"? 05:14 Panthers' aggressive forecheck strategy 08:25 Disappointing end to the series 10:20 FanDuel betting promotion 15:17 Analyzing left-handed play strategies 17:44 Oilers struggle with defensive issues 22:09 Reflecting on lost talent 26:05 Expectations for Oilers' playoff performance 26:53 Analyzing the team's goalie situation 30:02 Wrapping up the playoff run IT’S OVER. The Edmonton Oilers' Season Ends in Disaster Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything.   Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! Warby Parker It’s the perfect time to upgrade your glasses for spring. Buy one prescription pair and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/LOCKEDONNHL. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers season is on the line. In this episode of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis breaks down why Game 6 against the Anaheim Ducks is the ultimate "message" game. Can the Oilers stave off elimination and force a Game 7? We dive deep into the numbers, looking at the Edmonton Oilers' struggles in the second and third periods despite scoring first in every game of this series. We also highlight the incredible performance of Leon Draisaitl, who has 9 points in 5 games after a six-week layoff, and how his linemates Vasily Podkolzin and Kasperi Kapanen have become an indispensable top-six unit. Finally, we discuss the immense pressure on Connor McDavid and the narrative surrounding his future in Edmonton as the Oilers look to pull the Ducks into the "deep end" of the pool in Anaheim 06:36 Ducks controlling game tempo 10:22 Discussing betting odds and app promotion 12:15 Watching hockey and standout players 15:16 Player development and team dynamics 18:25 Leon Draisaitl's playoff performance 22:43 Oilers' playoff performance discussion 24:35 Concerns for Oilers against Ducks 29:04 Closing thoughts on Oilers' performance Leon Draisaitl is CARRYING the Edmonton Oilers | Game 6 Preview & Line Analysis Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything.   Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! Warby Parker It’s the perfect time to upgrade your glasses for spring. Buy one prescription pair and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/LOCKEDONNHL.   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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers refuse to go home! In a "Stayin' Alive Wednesday" edition of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis breaks down a gutsy 4-1 win over the Anaheim Ducks to force Game 6.  The day started with a massive scare as Connor McDavid was a game-time decision after missing morning skate. Despite the injury concerns, the captain suited up, and the Oilers responded with a clinical first period that saw three goals in under 12 minutes. Nick dives into the mechanics of the early onslaught, featuring goals from Vasily Podkolzin, Zach Hyman, and Leon Draisaitl. We also discuss Evan Bouchard's defensive activism, Connor Ingram's steady presence in net, and why the "hungry dog" mentality is the only way Edmonton survives Game 6 on the road. 03:37 Fans' perspectives on player injuries 08:52 Reflecting on the playoff win 13:18 Engaging in hockey Discord chats 14:29 Analyzing college and hockey strategy 18:36 McDavid and Draisaitl strategic play 22:55 Edmonton's Game Strategy Analysis 24:16 Oilers playoff challenges ahead 28:07 Maintaining control in hockey games DO OR DIE: How the Oilers SAVED Their Season in Game 5 Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything.   Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! Warby Parker It’s the perfect time to upgrade your glasses for spring. Buy one prescription pair and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/LOCKEDONNHL.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)   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers have their backs against the wall heading into Game 5 against the Anaheim Ducks. Down 3-1, the season and perhaps the current window of contention is on the line. Can Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Zach Hyman find a way to drag this series back to Edmonton for a Game 6? On today’s Locked On Oilers, Nick Zararis breaks down the "survival mode" mentality required to stay alive.  We look at the dominant play of the Leon Draisaitl, Kasperi Kapanen, and Vasily Podkolzin line (outscoring opponents 5-0!) and why the rest of the roster must step up. Plus, a deep dive into the Ducks' forecheck, Jackson LaCombe’s impact on a hobbled McDavid, and how Kris Knoblauch can fix a 50% penalty kill. Topics Covered: The philosophy of "Survival Hockey" vs. "Desperate Hockey." Connor McDavid’s ankle injury and the Jackson LaCombe matchup. Why the Draisaitl-Kapanen-Podkolzin line is the Oilers' only hope right now. Breaking the Ducks' hyper-aggressive forecheck and fixing clean breakouts. The "Obituary" narrative: Is it too early to write off the Oilers? 03:22 Sports as a character test 08:22 Facing loss and finding meaning 10:44 Job credit offer from Indeed 14:21 Analyzing Oilers-Ducks game strategy 16:41 Defensive mistakes and bad luck 22:08 Warby Parker glasses discount promo 24:49 Oilers' challenging regular season 28:15 Getting fired up for the game 29:57 Ending and call to action   Oilers SEASON ON THE LINE! Can McDavid & Draisaitl Force Game 6? | Oilers vs Ducks G5 Preview Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. KALSHI For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything.   Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! Warby Parker It’s the perfect time to upgrade your glasses for spring. Buy one prescription pair and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/LOCKEDONNHL. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Down 3-1 in the series after a soul-crushing overtime loss to the Anaheim Ducks, the Oilers have a lot of soul-searching to do. Was the Ryan Poehling goal actually a goal? Did the officials blow the whistle too late? Nick Zararis breaks down the officiating controversy while acknowledging the hard truth: the Oilers are getting exactly what they deserve. In this episode, we explore: The Officiating "Subjectivity": Why you can't leave the game in the hands of fallible humans  The PK Abomination: How a 30% penalty kill is sinking a Stanley Cup contender The McDavid Factor: Is #97 healthy enough to carry the "horses" the Oilers don't have? The "President's Men" Moment: Why the Oilers currently lack the "bulletproof" details needed to win 3-1 Deficit: Why the Oilers’ "Abominable" Penalty Kill is Killing the Season Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get one-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! Warby Parker It’s the perfect time to upgrade your glasses for spring. Buy one prescription pair and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/LOCKEDONNHL.   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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers head into a crucial Game 3 in Southern California with the series tied 1-1. The biggest shock of the postseason so far? Connor McDavid has zero points through two games. With a looming lower-body injury and a power play that is "taking on water," can the Oilers reclaim control of this series?. Host Nick Zararis dives into why the Anaheim Ducks have successfully corralled the best player in the world. We break down the "nuts and bolts" of McDavid's performance, the impact of his ankle injury, and why the Oilers might need to embrace a "hard hat" dump-and-chase style to wear down Ducks defender Jackson LaCombe 04:35 Analyzing Jackson Lacombe's gameplay 06:38 Strategies for McDavid's line 11:35 Discussing Oilers' power play struggles 14:26 Evaluating Oilers’ offensive struggles 18:57 Oilers struggle with power play 20:44 Sports betting promotions and insights 23:56 Discussing team player dynamics 27:01 Analyzing the Oilers vs. Ducks series How the Oilers Survive a McDavid Slump: Draisaitl’s Dominance & Game 3 Keys Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today!Hims To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL.Warby Parker It’s the perfect time to upgrade your glasses for spring. Buy one prescription pair and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/LOCKEDONNHL. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers drop a frustrating Game 2 to the Anaheim Ducks 6-4, but the real story is the Connor McDavid injury scare. After a collision with Mattias Ekholm, McDavid headed down the tunnel, leaving Oilers fans holding their breath. While he returned to the ice, the captain remains pointless in the series, and the Oilers' special teams are "taking on water" Host Nick Zararis breaks down the tactical failures in the net-front battle and why the Oilers' defense is struggling to clear the porch against a physical Ducks cycle. We look at the "Freaky Friday" situation where the even-strength scoring is up, but the league's best power play has gone 0-for-6 through two games. Plus, a mental reset for Game 3 as the series shifts to Southern California 04:28 Connor's on-ice decision making 07:02 Oilers power play strategy analysis 12:30 Ducks' defensive strategies analyzed 15:59 Creating offensive pressure in hockey 23:56 Oilers' current power play struggles 25:39 Discussing team defense challenges 28:15 Creating pressure on the rush Connor McDavid INJURY Scare & Oilers Game 2 Meltdown vs Ducks | What Happened? Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today!Hims To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL.Warby Parker It’s the perfect time to upgrade your glasses for spring. Buy one prescription pair and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/LOCKEDONNHL. 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers have a 1-0 lead, but the cost of victory is rising. In today’s episode, Nick Zararis breaks down the "Game within the Game" after re-watching the Oilers' 4-3 win over the Anaheim Ducks. While Leon Draisaitl silenced doubters by sliding back into the lineup seamlessly and anchoring a dominant line with Kasperi Kapanen and Vasily Podkolzin, the Oilers now face a major lineup hole Adam Henrique is officially OUT for Game 2. Nick discusses why rookie Josh Samanski is expected to draw in and how his chemistry with Colton Doc and Trent Frederick could provide a "plus fourth line" advantage On Today’s Show:  Draisaitl’s "Gravity": A deep dive into how Leon manipulated Jackson LaCombe and Leo Carlsson to set up the game-winner  The Power Play Problem: Why the Oilers' 5-on-4 looked "out of whack" and how to fix the timing.  Targeting Trouba: Why the Oilers must exploit Jacob Trouba’s passive neutral zone defense to win the transition battle 04:49 Draisaitl's game-winning setup 07:21 Analyzing Draisaitl's offensive impact 15:24 Analyzing Ducks defensive weaknesses 17:06 Oilers' forward strategy discussion 22:03 Josh Samanski replacing Adam Henrique 25:51 Transition defense strategy discussion 27:08 Oilers' offensive strategy challenges Oilers vs Ducks Game 2 Preview: Adam Henrique OUT, Draisaitl’s Dominant Return Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game.5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today!Hims To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL.Warby Parker It’s the perfect time to upgrade your glasses for spring. Buy one prescription pair and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/LOCKEDONNHL.   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)   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers take a 1-0 series lead over the Anaheim Ducks, but they did it in the most unexpected way possible. In today's episode, Nick Zararis breaks down a wild 4-3 Victory Tuesday. For the first time all year, the Oilers won a game without a point from Connor McDavid. While the stars were quiet on the scoresheet, the depth arrived in a big way: Jason Dickinson and Kasperi Kapanen both potted a pair, with Kapanen netting the dramatic game-winner. Nick also "picks some nits" regarding the defensive lapses in the second period, Darnell Nurse’s "egregious" penalty, and why Kris Knoblauch needs to stop leaning on his "emotional support" lines when the chips are down. Plus, a look ahead to Game 2: Why targeting Jacob Trouba and Radko Gudas is the key to a 2-0 lead 05:07 Analyzing hockey's invisible momentum 08:00 Evaluating depth players' NHL futures 14:05 Oilers' unexpected player roles 15:11 Judging NHL player potential 20:35 Getting simple online healthcare 24:49 Tracking player performance stats 26:06 Ducks focus on offensive strategy  Oilers vs Ducks Game 1 Recap: Edmonton Wins WITHOUT McDavid Points! Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official.  Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com  Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!  Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.  Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.  FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today! Hims To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL. Warby Parker It’s the perfect time to upgrade your glasses for spring. Buy one prescription pair and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/LOCKEDONNHL. 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=YouTube Locked 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.

The Edmonton Oilers and Anaheim Ducks meet in the playoffs for the first time since 2017! Is Edmonton ready for the youth movement in SoCal, or will the Power Play carry them through? On today's special crossover edition of Locked On Oilers, Nick Sarras is joined by Kyle Kjer of Locked On Ducks to break down every angle of this Round 1 matchup. The biggest question mark heading into Game 1: Leon Draisaitl’s health. Nick and Kyle discuss the gamesmanship at play and whether the Oilers can survive without #29 down the middle. We also dive deep into the "X-Factors" for both sides. For Edmonton, all eyes are on Matt Savoie and his incredible late-season surge. Can he provide the secondary scoring needed to support Connor McDavid? On the Ducks' side, we look at the arrival of Cutter Gauthier and Leo Carlson, and why their "nothing to lose" attitude makes them a threat 05:03 Preview of Oilers vs. Ducks Playoff Matchup 06:20 Oilers' playoff challenges and performance 11:58 Player highlights and impact analysis 14:41 Trouba's improved decision making 16:43 Performing Well in First NHL Season 19:10 Coach Quenneville's playoff preparation 24:42 Analyzing Ducks' defensive strategy 27:37 Ducks' offensive strategy concerns Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today!   Hims To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL.   Warby Parker It’s the perfect time to upgrade your glasses for spring. Buy one prescription pair and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/LOCKEDONNHL.   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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Edmonton Oilers have a projected Game 1 lineup! We break down the forward lines, Leon Draisaitl’s injury status, and why this defensive group is the key to beating the Anaheim Ducks. On today’s bonus Saturday edition of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis dives into the Friday practice lines that suggest Leon Draisaitl is ready to go for Game 1. We analyze the "Optimal" forward group featuring Matt Savoie alongside Connor McDavid and why the Darnell Nurse/Connor Murphy pairing must "tread water" for Edmonton to advance. 04:42 Savoy's impressive season finale 06:12 Vasily Podkolzin's emergence in the NHL 09:13 Analyzing team's possession numbers 13:07 Oilers needing to boost defense 18:23 Evaluating the Oilers' defense tactics 22:20 Evaluating line-up foot speed 23:59 Handling injured star players 28:25 Oilers vs. Ducks playoff preview Edmonton Oilers Game 1 Lineup REVEALED: Leon Draisaitl Injury Update & Lines vs Ducks   Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. 5-Hour ENERGY The Cotton Candy flavor is HERE on https://5hourEnergy.com or Amazon, crack open Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot today!Hims To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, hair loss, weight loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/LOCKEDONNHL. Warby Parker It’s the perfect time to upgrade your glasses for spring. Buy one prescription pair and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/LOCKEDONNHL. 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)   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.