The Edmonton Oilers are known for having one of the most dangerous power plays in the NHL, led by Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Zach Hyman, Ryan Nugent‑Hopkins, and Evan Bouchard. But in 2024‑25, the Oilers’ power play dropped from top‑five status to 11th in the league. On this episode of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis dives deep into the numbers behind this regression fewer scoring chances, decreased shots on goal, and a notable decline in high‑danger opportunities. Was this simply a case of Zach Hyman’s regression from his career‑best season, or is the problem rooted in strategy and predictability?

We explore the underlying analytics, how opposing defenses like the Florida Panthers neutralized Edmonton’s man advantage in the Stanley Cup Final, and what changes new coaching tactics could bring. From puck‑movement strategies to adjusting zone entries and personnel usage, Nick offers solutions to help the Oilers return to elite status on special teams in 2025‑26.

0:00 Intro: Oilers power play analysis

5:16 Raw numbers: Power play time and opportunities

16:28 Impact of power play regression over a season

19:34 Investigating year-over-year power play changes

24:09 Oilers' unique power play structure and tactics

28:46 Outro: Subscribe and upcoming content

Edmonton Oilers Special Teams Struggles: Why the Power Play Dropped & How to Fix It

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