In a National Hockey League pre-season marked by significant injuries to star players, Connor McDavid is breaking the mold. Instead of opting for cautious preparation, the Edmonton Oilers’ captain is requesting more ice time. McDavid approached head coach Kris Knoblauch to express his desire to play against the Vancouver Canucks—his third pre-season game—demonstrating his commitment to getting ready for the regular season.
McDavid wasn’t originally slated to play in Monday’s game, but he communicated over the weekend that he wanted to participate in the remainder of the pre-season, aiming to compete in five out of eight scheduled games. His eagerness stands in stark contrast to many top players who are hesitant to risk injury before the games count.
“That’s why he’s our leader. He leads by example,” said veteran forward Corey Perry. “Everyone knows he’s not the loudest guy in the room, but his actions speak volumes.”
McDavid’s passion for the game and his readiness to ramp up his performance are evident. Following a 3-2 victory against the Canucks, where he recorded two assists and logged over 21 minutes of ice time, McDavid stated, “I just wanted to get into a little bit of rhythm. It’s tough to get in a rhythm when you play one, sit out a week, and play another.”
This drive for consistency resonates deeply within the organization, particularly with the Oilers looking to improve on a dismal start to last season, where they finished 2-9-1. Perry emphasized, “He wants to start ramping up early,” underscoring the importance of McDavid’s influence in the locker room.
New general manager Stan Bowman reflected on McDavid’s request, drawing parallels to his past experiences with the Chicago Blackhawks. “Sometimes with the top players, they want to get their game to the level that they want to be at,” he explained. “I’m not shocked by that.”
In light of injuries to other star players like Drew Doughty and Patrik Laine, some might question whether McDavid’s desire for more ice time is risky. However, Bowman dismissed such concerns. “I think you can overthink that one. Guys can get hurt in practice,” he noted, reinforcing the belief that staying engaged is vital for player development.
As the Oilers prepare for the upcoming season, McDavid’s push for more pre-season action sends a strong message throughout the team. His commitment to sharpening his skills before the regular season not only boosts his own performance but also sets a tone for his teammates. As Perry succinctly put it, “That’s exactly what it is—leading by example.”
For McDavid, the path to becoming an effective captain has been a journey. Handed the ‘C’ at just 19 years old, he has grown significantly in understanding how to lead a team. After a disappointing playoff exit last season, he is keenly aware of the need for a strong start. Reflecting on past challenges, he has learned valuable lessons about preparation and team dynamics.
This pre-season presents a unique challenge, as it feels distinct from the high-stakes matches the Oilers faced just a few months ago. Yet, McDavid’s decision to seek extra playing time highlights his determination to move past last year’s struggles. “Tonight, my focus was to get a little bit more engaged, get into some more battles,” he remarked after one of the games, indicating his proactive mindset.
McDavid’s request for more pre-season reps is a powerful testament to his leadership style. By prioritizing his readiness and demonstrating his work ethic, he is setting an example for his teammates. As Bowman noted, “The best thing a captain or leader can do is to be really good themselves.”
McDavid is not just preparing for the upcoming season; he is instilling a sense of accountability and motivation within the entire organization. As the Oilers gear up for a fresh start, it’s clear that McDavid’s leadership will play a crucial role in their journey ahead.
