Connor McDavid, the captain of the Edmonton Oilers, made headlines this past weekend by approaching head coach Kris Knoblauch with a bold request: he wants to play the remainder of the Oilers’ preseason schedule. This means participating in the upcoming game against the Seattle Kraken on Wednesday and the final exhibition match against the Vancouver Canucks on Friday. If granted, McDavid would play a total of five preseason games—a significant commitment for any superstar, especially one who experienced a shorter offseason than usual.
Why McDavid Wants More Ice Time
Last season, the Oilers struggled out of the gate, with a dismal 2-9-1 record that ultimately cost then-head coach Jay Woodcroft his job. McDavid is keen to avoid a similar fate this year. “I just wanted to get into a little bit of rhythm,” he explained after Monday’s game. “It’s tough to get in a rhythm when you play one, sit out a week, and play another.”
McDavid also expressed some frustration regarding the team’s lack of cohesion during training camp, noting, “We haven’t played much with our group. I think you’ll see that the next two games. I’m hoping so, just to get some rhythm and camaraderie. You know that stuff is important.” His comments seemed to hint at a desire for the coaching staff to ice a more complete lineup, suggesting a push for consistency as they prepare for the regular season.
Injury Concerns: A Valid Worry?
Given the frequency of injuries affecting star players during the preseason, it’s understandable for fans and the organization to be concerned about McDavid’s request. However, new Oilers GM Stan Bowman isn’t overly worried. He acknowledged that it’s not uncommon for elite players to seek extra ice time to fine-tune their games. “If anyone gets hurt, then it’s a bad outcome,” Bowman noted. “But if you approach things with that mindset, then you’re always going to be just waiting ’til Game 1 to play.”
McDavid’s Leadership Shines
In an era where many superstars opt out of preseason games, McDavid stands out by embracing the challenge. While he is aware of the risk of injury, his primary focus is on improving his game and the team’s overall performance. Veteran forward Corey Perry praised McDavid’s leadership, saying, “Everybody knows he’s not the loudest guy in the room. But those little things, they help. That’s why he’s our leader.”
Even though the Amazon Prime trailer showcased a different side of McDavid, his dedication and work ethic on the ice set a powerful example for his teammates.
Implications for the Rest of Preseason
McDavid’s call to action comes at a crucial time. With only a few non-regulars remaining on the roster—such as Noah Philp, Raphael Lavoie, and Travis Dermott—this could signal a shift in the Oilers’ approach to the remainder of the preseason. While it’s unclear if this was part of the original plan, McDavid’s insistence on getting serious could prompt the coaching staff to integrate other key players into the lineup. This includes the possibility of Darnell Nurse, who has recently been cleared medically, getting some ice time alongside his future defensive partner.
McDavid’s request not only emphasizes his commitment to the team but also sets the tone for a more focused preseason. With the regular season fast approaching, the Oilers will be eager to harness this momentum and hit the ground running. McDavid’s determination could be just what the team needs to ensure a strong start, making this preseason one to watch closely.
