Oilers' Big Bets and Hidden Risks | NHL News

NHL News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 11, 2026 · 2m

The Edmonton Oilers made bold, high-stakes moves this offseason, betting big on Ryan Shea’s breakout, Mike Babcock’s return, and a three-goalie experiment — all while trading Darnell Nurse to free up cap space. With Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl as the foundation, the team has four major gambles: Shea’s five-year, $4M deal hinges on repeating his career year; Babcock’s hiring carries risk despite NHL clearance; defense now relies on a committee with Shea, Mukhamadullin, and veterans; and netminding is a wild card with Andersen, Jarry, and Levi all vying for starter status. If any of these…