Oilers need roster changes to win in near future, GM Stan Bowman concedes
Edmonton Oilers general manager Stan Bowman acknowledged the team needs roster changes after an early playoff exit, stating the next season's roster will not be the same. He admitted past player acquisitions did not work out and emphasized the urgency to improve, particularly in goaltending and defense. Both Bowman and head coach Kris Knoblauch agreed with captain Connor McDavid's assessment that the team was average and must act now to remain competitive.
- ▪Stan Bowman admitted that key player additions this season, including Tristan Jarry and Andrew Mangiapane, did not work out.
- ▪The Oilers were eliminated in the first round of the 2026 NHL playoffs by the younger and faster Anaheim Ducks.
- ▪Both McDavid and Jason Dickinson played through foot/ankle fractures during the postseason.
- ▪Bowman stressed the need for roster adjustments despite not planning a complete overhaul.
- ▪Knoblauch cited a lack of consistent defensive mentality as a key reason for the team's playoff struggles.
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Open this photo in gallery:Oilers general manager Stan Bowman speaks to reporters ahead of the Stanley Cup final in June, 2025. Edmonton lost that series and fell in this year's opening playoff round.Steph Chambers/Getty ImagesShareSave for laterPlease log in to bookmark this story.Log InCreate Free AccountSaying Saturday was not a day for big decisions or announcements, Edmonton Oilers general manager Stan Bowman did concede next season’s team will “not be the same group as today.”Two days after the Oilers were eliminated in six games in the first round of the NHL playoffs, Bowman told a media session there are positives in young players like Matt Savoie, Josh Samanski and Vasily Podkolzin, but changes to the roster are definitely needed.“We do need some new players.
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