Oilers Mailbag: Vegas Rumours, Superstar Futures, and a Crystal Ball
Each week, we check in with our readers on social media and email to see what is on top of their mind, explore the hot topics of conversation, and answer hard-hitting questions about the Edmonton Oilers. Here are some of the talking points from the past week.
Vegas Rumours and Bruce Cassidy
In response to Frank Seravalli's post rumouring that the Oilers were withheld permission by the Vegas Golden Knights to interview former head coach Bruce Cassidy as a possible replacement for Kris Knoblauch, one fan had a sharp retort. Jan from Jersey posted on X.com: "Cassidy is a little old to be playing goalie in the National (Hockey League)." This comment cuts straight to the point when it comes to what the biggest issue is facing Edmonton right now. We lol'd.
Superstar Futures: McDavid and Draisaitl
Richard Campbell asked: "If the Oilers, Connor and Leon haven't won the Cup after all these years, why would they wish to keep trying? I know Leon is under a longer contract. Not blaming anyone. Daryl is making money." Indeed, owner Daryl Katz did not become a billionaire by making bad investments. He is definitely not making near the money off his hockey club this season compared to past years. The NHL average net profit per playoff game hosted is $2.5-5 million US, and Edmonton could be above the median. Look at the No. 97 and No. 29 Oilers sweaters worn by fans passing through Ford Hall to imagine the merchandise revenue from these two superstars over 11 years together. But contract terms are not guarantees for top talent. Either could demand a trade tomorrow and get it. Money talks, but for two of the NHL's brightest stars, cementing their legacy with a championship is paramount.
You Said It: A Crystal Ball
For this week's edition of Dear Gerry, we dip back into letters from the past season and pick one fan who had a crystal ball. From a Jan. 31 submission: "The first review of the Oilers in the Edmonton Journal after yesterday's game said they are 'still a good team.' Yes, indeed, a good team, but not a very good team, and certainly not an excellent team. They are a middle-of-the-road team that looks good against teams below them and pretty awful at times against teams above them. Teams that are quick on their skates and even quicker in their decision-making overwhelm and toy with the Oilers. Devils, Penguins, Avalanche, Canadiens, Lightning, and on. Maybe I'll be pleasantly surprised, but I doubt it. Oilers out in the first round, five games, six tops." This prediction proved prescient as the Oilers were eliminated in the first round.
