The Edmonton Oilers, a team consistently boasting two of the league's most dominant offensive forces in Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, continue to face a perplexing issue: the struggle of talented wingers to maintain their scoring touch after joining the team. This season, the spotlight is on Andrew Mangiapane, a player with a proven 35-goal season in his past, who has struggled to find the back of the net consistently since arriving in Edmonton. His situation mirrors that of other acquisitions, raising questions about the factors hindering these players' success.
Mangiapane's struggles are not an isolated incident. Recent history shows a pattern of wingers arriving in Edmonton with promising resumes, only to see their production decline. Last season, the Oilers brought in Jeff Skinner and Viktor Arvidsson, hoping to add secondary scoring, but both players found themselves as healthy scratches during crucial playoff games. This year, Mangiapane's lack of production has led to trade rumors and questions about his fit within the team. He has only managed five goals in 40 games, a far cry from the offensive output the Oilers were expecting.
Several factors could contribute to this trend. One potential reason is the pressure of playing alongside McDavid and Draisaitl. While the opportunity to play with such elite players is undoubtedly enticing, it can also be daunting. Wingers may feel pressure to defer to the superstars, potentially hindering their own offensive instincts. Another factor could be the constant line shuffling that is common in Edmonton. While coach Kris Knoblauch's adjustments aim to find the optimal combinations, it can disrupt a winger's ability to develop chemistry with linemates. Leon Draisaitl has had different wingers rotating with him this season including Matt Savoie, Andrew Mangiapane, and Jack Roslovic.
The Oilers' overall offensive approach might also play a role. In the 2022-23 season, the team led the NHL in goals, but has since dropped to 12th. There has been a concerning trend of Edmonton's returning wingers averaging fewer expected goals per hour this season compared to last season. The team's even goal differential at 5v5 this season is not an encouraging result for a team with Stanley Cup aspirations. The team's reliance on McDavid and Draisaitl may overshadow the contributions of other players, leading to a decrease in overall offensive depth.
Despite these challenges, some wingers have found success in Edmonton. Zach Hyman, for example, has thrived alongside McDavid, becoming a consistent goal scorer. Vasily Podkolzin has also emerged as a reliable option on Draisaitl's wing, exceeding initial expectations. These success stories suggest that it is possible for wingers to flourish in Edmonton, but it requires a specific combination of skill, adaptability, and chemistry. Podkolzin has 40 points in 120 games with Edmonton.
As the Oilers approach the trade deadline, they face a crucial decision regarding Mangiapane and other struggling wingers. Finding a solution to this persistent problem is essential for the team to reach its full potential and compete for a Stanley Cup. The Oilers might consider seeking players who complement McDavid and Draisaitl's playing styles, focusing on those who can create their own scoring chances and contribute defensively. Ultimately, unlocking the potential of their wingers will be a key factor in the Oilers' pursuit of championship success.
