Oilers Defense Faces High Expectations for 2025–26 Season
When people think of the Edmonton Oilers, the first names that come to mind are usually Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, along with the offensive firepower that has made the team one of the NHL’s most feared attacks. But as the 2025–26 season gets underway, there’s a growing sense that the real story this year may be the defense. After two consecutive trips to the Stanley Cup Final that fell just short, the blue line is being viewed as the piece that could finally push the Oilers over the top.
The group is anchored by Darnell Nurse and Mattias Ekholm on the left side. Nurse, often the subject of outside criticism, is expected to have a big year — not necessarily by changing his game entirely, but by finding more consistency. Ekholm and Brett Kulak, meanwhile, provide steady play that coaches and teammates can rely on. Together, they form one of the deepest left-side groups in the NHL.
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On the right side, Evan Bouchard leads the way. He’s fresh off a four-year extension and has already proven he can quarterback one of the league’s best power plays. What he’s being challenged to do now is bring his playoff-level intensity into the regular season more often and round out his defensive game. Jake Walman is also expected to see time alongside Nurse, and there’s optimism there, since the pair had strong numbers when they played together last season. Ty Emberson and Troy Stecher will provide depth, though John Klingberg’s departure to San Jose means there’s slightly less insulation than last year.
Ekholm and Walman are entering contract years, which adds even more intrigue. Walman’s agent has already been in Edmonton, with talks of a potential six-year deal. Ekholm has voiced his desire to stay, but he knows his future may hinge on how the team handles McDavid’s next contract. Kulak, also in a contract year, will need to make his case if he wants to remain part of the long-term plan.
For Bouchard, this is a season of opportunity. His booming shot and offensive instincts are unquestioned, but what Edmonton really needs from him is reliability in his own zone. If he can grow into a more complete defender, he could cement himself as one of the league’s elite.
Of course, the ultimate test won’t come in October or November. The Oilers have proven they can pile up regular-season points. What’s been missing is a defensive group that holds up under playoff pressure — where mistakes are magnified and depth gets tested. If the veterans can stay steady, if Bouchard takes another step, and if younger players seize their chances when called upon, Edmonton’s defense may finally give its high-powered offense the support it needs to bring the Stanley Cup back to Oil Country.
This season, the Oilers’ blue line doesn’t need to be flashy. It just needs to be dependable. And if that happens, the rest of the league should be on notice.
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