Content deleted Content added
mNo edit summary |
→Broadcasters: Brenden Escott will replace Bryn Griffiths effective the 2025-26 NHL season. |
||
Line 1:
{{pp-semi-indef|small=yes}}
{{Short description|National Hockey League team based in Alberta, Canada}}
{{Use Canadian English|date=January 2015}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=May 2025}}
{{Distinguish|text=the WHL franchise [[Edmonton Oil Kings]]}}
{{Infobox NHL team
| CAN_eng = 1
| team_name = Edmonton Oilers
|
| bg_color = background:#FFFFFF !important; border-top:#00205B 5px solid !important; border-bottom:#D14520 5px solid !important;
| text_color = #000000
| logo_image = Logo Edmonton Oilers.svg
| logo_size = 230px
| conference = [[Western Conference (NHL)|Western]]
| division = [[Pacific Division (NHL)|Pacific]]
| founded = 1972
| history = '''Alberta Oilers'''<br />[[1972–73 WHA season|1972–1973]] ([[World Hockey Association|WHA]])<br />'''Edmonton Oilers'''<br />[[1973–74 WHA season|1973]]–[[1978–79 WHA season|1979]] (WHA)<br />[[1979–80 NHL season|1979]]–present ([[National Hockey League|NHL]])
| arena = '''[[Rogers Place]]'''
| city = [[Edmonton, Alberta]]
| uniform_image = WCP-Uniform-EDM.png
| uniform_image_size = 150px
| team_colors = Royal blue, orange, white<ref name="Jerseys">{{cite press release|title=RELEASE: Oilers return to iconic original jerseys|url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/release-oilers-return-to-iconic-original-jerseys/c-334719330|publisher=NHL Enterprises, L.P.|website=EdmontonOilers.com|date=July 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220708032614/https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/release-oilers-return-to-iconic-original-jerseys/c-334719330|archive-date=July 8, 2022|access-date=May 20, 2024|quote=While the team's primary jersey colours will now be blue (home) and white (away), orange will remain as the trim on both, as well as on the team's alternate uniform that will continue to be worn.|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|last=Kulesa|first=Anna|title=Oilers return to original uniforms for 2022–23 season, Gretzky approves|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/edmonton-oilers-to-wear-original-uniforms-for-2022-23-season/c-334846324|publisher=NHL Enterprises, L.P.|website=NHL.com|date=July 7, 2022|access-date=July 9, 2022|quote=Edmonton will sport the royal blue jerseys during home games and the white jerseys during away games. The orange jerseys will remain as the team's alternate uniform.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Logo Technical Information|url=https://cloud.edmontonoilers.com/brand-hub/Edmonton-Oilers-Brand-Book.pdf#page=7|work=Edmonton Oilers Brand Book|date=March 11, 2024|access-date=December 16, 2024}}</ref><br />{{colour box|#00205B}} {{colour box|#D14520}} {{colour box|#FFFFFF}}
| media_affiliates = [[Sportsnet|Sportsnet West]]<br />[[Sportsnet One|Sportsnet Oilers]]<br />[[CKEM-DT|Citytv Edmonton]]<br />[[CHED (AM)|880 CHED]]
| owner = [[OEG Inc.]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Contact Us|url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/info/contact-us|publisher=NHL Enterprises, L.P.|website=EdmontonOilers.com|access-date=January 18, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230112061747/https://www.nhl.com/oilers/info/contact-us|archive-date=January 12, 2023|url-status=live}}</ref>
| general_manager = [[Stan Bowman]]
| head_coach = [[Kris Knoblauch]]
| captain = [[Connor McDavid]]
| minor_league_affiliates = [[Bakersfield Condors]] ([[American Hockey League|AHL]])<br />[[Fort Wayne Komets]] ([[ECHL]])
| stanley_cups = '''5''' ([[1984 Stanley Cup Final|1983–84]], [[1985 Stanley Cup Final|1984–85]], [[1987 Stanley Cup Final|1986–87]], [[1988 Stanley Cup Final|1987–88]], [[1990 Stanley Cup Final|1989–90]])
| conf_titles = '''9''' ([[1982–83 NHL season|1982–83]], [[1983–84 NHL season|1983–84]], [[1984–85 NHL season|1984–85]], [[1986–87 NHL season|1986–87]], [[1987–88 NHL season|1987–88]], [[1989–90 NHL season|1989–90]], [[2005–06 NHL season|2005–06]], [[2023–24 NHL season|2023–24]], [[2024–25 NHL season|2024–25]])
| presidents'_trophies = '''2''' ([[1985–86 NHL season|1985–86]], [[1986–87 NHL season|1986–87]])
| division_titles = '''6''' ([[1981–82 NHL season|1981–82]], [[1982–83 NHL season|1982–83]], [[1983–84 NHL season|1983–84]], [[1984–85 NHL season|1984–85]], [[1985–86 NHL season|1985–86]], [[1986–87 NHL season|1986–87]])
| website = {{URL|nhl.com/oilers}}
}}
The '''Edmonton Oilers''' are a professional [[ice hockey]] team based in [[Edmonton]]. The Oilers compete in the [[National Hockey League]] (NHL) as a member of the [[Pacific Division (NHL)|Pacific Division]] in the [[Western Conference (NHL)|Western Conference]]. They play their home games at [[Rogers Place]], which opened in 2016.<ref name="RogersPlace">{{cite web|url=https://www.rogersplace.com/ |title=Edmonton, Alberta |publisher=Rogers Place |date=August 7, 2022 |accessdate=August 25, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://globalnews.ca/news/3443176/edmonton-oilers-2017-playoff-run-ends-with-2-1-loss-to-ducks-in-game-7-of-western-conference-semifinal/ | title=Edmonton Oilers' 2017 playoff run ends with 2–1 loss to Ducks in game 7 of Western Conference semifinal}}</ref> [[Kris Knoblauch]] has been the head coach of the team since November 11, 2023, and [[Stan Bowman]] has served as general manager since July 24, 2024. The Oilers are one of two NHL franchises based in [[Alberta]], the other being the [[Calgary Flames]]. Their proximity has led to a fierce rivalry known as the "[[Battle of Alberta (NHL)|Battle of Alberta]]".<ref>{{cite book |last1=Spector |first1=Mark |title=The Battle of Alberta: The Historic Rivalry Between the Edmonton Oilers and the Calgary Flames |date=2015 |publisher=McClelland & Stewart}}</ref>
The Oilers were founded in 1971 by [[Bill Hunter (ice hockey)|W. D. "Wild Bill" Hunter]] and Dr. Chuck Allard and played its first season in [[1972–73 WHA season|1972–73]] as one of the 12 founding franchises of the major professional [[World Hockey Association]] (WHA). They were intended to be one of two WHA Alberta teams along with the [[Calgary Broncos]]. However, when the Broncos relocated and became the [[Cleveland Crusaders]] before the WHA's first season began, the team was named the '''Alberta Oilers'''. They were renamed the '''Edmonton Oilers''' the [[1973–74 WHA season|following year]] and subsequently joined the NHL in [[1979–80 NHL season|1979]] as one of four franchises absorbed through the [[NHL–WHA merger]].
After joining the NHL, the Oilers went on to win the [[Stanley Cup]] on five occasions: [[1984 Stanley Cup Final|1983–84]], [[1985 Stanley Cup Final|1984–85]], [[1987 Stanley Cup Final|1986–87]], [[1988 Stanley Cup Final|1987–88]] and [[1990 Stanley Cup Final|1989–90]]. Along with the [[Pittsburgh Penguins]], they are tied for the most [[Stanley Cup Final|championships]] won by any team since the NHL–WHA merger, as well as the most won by any team that joined the league in or after 1967. Among all NHL teams, only the [[Montreal Canadiens]] have won the Stanley Cup more times since the league's 1967 expansion. The Oilers also won six straight [[Smythe Division|division]] titles from [[1981–82 NHL season|1981–82]] through [[1986–87 NHL season|1986–87]]. Notably, however, the Oilers have not won a division title since 1987, a drought that includes their most recent two Stanley Cup wins and is the longest division title drought in all of the North American major professional sports.{{efn|From the [[1982 Stanley Cup playoffs|1982]] through the [[1993 Stanley Cup playoffs]], the first two rounds were contested exclusively within the divisions. During that time, the Oilers claimed their victories in the [[Smythe Division]] final as division championships, not their first-place finishes. As a result, the championship banners in the rafters at [[Rogers Place]] (and, formerly, [[Northlands Coliseum]]) recognize the team as "Smythe Division Champions" for [[1982–83 NHL season|1982–83]], [[1983–84 NHL season|1983–84]], [[1984–85 NHL season|1984–85]], [[1986–87 NHL season|1986–87]], [[1987–88 NHL season|1987–88]], [[1989–90 NHL season|1989–90]], [[1990–91 NHL season|1990–91]] and [[1991–92 NHL season|1991–92]].}} For their overall success in the 1980s and early 1990s, the Oilers team of this era has been honoured with [[Dynasty (sports)#Ice hockey|dynasty]] status by the [[Hockey Hall of Fame]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Edmonton Oilers 1983–84 to 1989–90|url=https://www.hhof.com/hockeypedia/edmontonoilers_8384_8990.html|publisher=Hockey Hall of Fame|date=June 28, 2015|access-date=June 28, 2015|archive-date=September 5, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905074818/http://www.hhof.com/htmlTimeCapsule/dyntmoil.shtml|url-status=dead}}</ref>
The Oilers began to struggle after coming up short in the [[2006 Stanley Cup Final]], missing the playoffs for the subsequent 10 seasons. The Oilers have made 19 first-round selections in the [[NHL entry draft]] since 2007: 10 within the first 10 picks overall, six within the first four picks, and four of the first overall selections. With those first overall picks, Edmonton selected [[Taylor Hall]], [[Ryan Nugent-Hopkins]], [[Nail Yakupov]] and [[Connor McDavid]]; of these, Nugent-Hopkins and McDavid remained with the team, helping them reach the [[Stanley Cup Final]] in [[2024 Stanley Cup Final|2024]] and [[2025 Stanley Cup Final|2025]], where they lost to the [[Florida Panthers]] on both occasions.
{{TOC limit|3}}
==History==
{{main|History of the Edmonton Oilers}}
===
On November 1, 1971, the Edmonton Oilers became one of the 12 founding WHA franchises. The original owners were [[Bill Hunter (ice hockey)|"Wild Bill" Hunter]] (1920–2002) and partner, [[Charles Allard|Dr. Charles A. "Chuck" Allard]] (1919–1991)<ref>{{cite book | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DnCsBwAAQBAJ&pg=PA675 | title=Sports in America from Colonial Times to the Twenty-First Century: An Encyclopedia: An Encyclopedia | isbn=9781317459477 | last1=Riess | first1=Steven A. | date=March 26, 2015 | publisher=Routledge}}</ref> (father of [[Vancouver]] lawyer [[Peter A. Allard School of Law|Peter Allard]])<ref>{{cite web | url=https://historyproject.allard.ubc.ca/law-history-project/profile/peter-allard-qc | title=Peter A. Allard, QC}}</ref> who, a decade later, also brought the [[Second City Television|''SCTV'']] sketch comedy TV series to Edmonton.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://ecitydoc.com/download/charles-alexander-allard-md-frcsc-facs-1919-1991-3_pdf | title=[PDF] charles alexander allard, md, FRCSC, facs 1919–1991 – Free Download PDF}}</ref> Hunter also owned the [[Edmonton Oil Kings (WCHL)|Edmonton Oil Kings]], a junior hockey franchise,<ref name=whl>{{cite web |url=http://www.whl.ca/page/whl-history |title=WHL History |publisher=Western Hockey League |access-date=November 3, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101113222758/http://www.whl.ca/page/whl-history |archive-date=November 13, 2010}}</ref> and founded the Canadian Major Junior Hockey League (now known as the [[Western Hockey League]] (WHL)).<ref name=whl/> Hunter's efforts to bring major professional hockey to [[Edmonton]] via an expansion NHL franchise had been rebuffed by the NHL, and Hunter looked to the upstart WHA instead. It was announced in early 1972 that the team would be known as the "Edmonton Oil Kings", which referred to the previous Oil Kings teams in the 1950s and 1960s. However, this soon changed to where Hunter chose to name the team the "Oilers".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://newspaperarchive.com/columbus-telegram-jan-12-1972-p-23/|title=Columbus Telegram Newspaper Archives, Jan 12, 1972, p. 23|date=January 12, 1972|website=NewspaperArchive.com|accessdate=May 31, 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=MacNeil |first=Rob |url=http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2010/09/17/nhl_team_names/ |title=What's in a name? |publisher=Sportsnet |date=September 17, 2010 |access-date=November 3, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101009142207/http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2010/09/17/nhl_team_names/ |archive-date=October 9, 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Hunter also served as head coach during 1972–73, 1974–75 and 1975–76 seasons.
After the newly founded [[Calgary Broncos]] folded before the commencement of the inaugural WHA season, the Oilers were renamed the '''Alberta Oilers''' as it was planned to split their home games between Edmonton and [[Calgary]]. Possibly for financial reasons or to allow for a less complicated return of the WHA to Calgary, though, the team ultimately played all of its home games in the [[Edmonton Gardens]] and changed its name back to the Edmonton Oilers the following year.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://hockey.ballparks.com/WHA/AlbertaOilers/index.htm |title=Northlands Coliseum |publisher=Ballparks |access-date=November 3, 2010}}</ref> They won the first game in WHA history 7–4 over the [[Ottawa Nationals]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Bonanno |first=Rocky |url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=426216 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101117123740/http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=426216 |url-status=dead |archive-date=November 17, 2010 |title=WHA and NHL merged 30-years ago |publisher=National Hockey League |date=June 22, 2009 |access-date=November 3, 2010}}</ref>
The Oilers drew fans with players such as [[defenceman]] and team [[captain (hockey)|captain]] [[Al Hamilton]], [[goaltender]] [[Dave Dryden]] and [[forward (hockey)|forwards]] [[Blair MacDonald]] and [[Bill Flett]]. However, a relatively little-noticed move in [[1976–77 WHA season|1976]] had an important impact on the history of the franchise. That year, journeyman forward [[Glen Sather]] was acquired by the Oilers.<ref>{{cite web |last=Pelletier |first=Joe |url=http://oilerslegends.blogspot.com/2006/11/glen-sather.html |title=Glen Sather |publisher=greatesthockeylegends.com |access-date=November 3, 2010}}</ref> It turned out to be his final season as a player and he was named player-coach late in the season, moving to the bench full-time after the season. Sather was the coach or [[List of Edmonton Oilers general managers|general manager]] of the Oilers for the next 23 years.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/LegendsMember.jsp?mem=b199701&type=Builder&page=bio&list=ByName#photo |title=Glen Sather |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=November 3, 2010}}</ref>
Although the Oilers' on-ice performance for most of the WHA's history was mediocre, they remained well-supported and financially stable by WHA standards. In 1976, Hunter and Allard sold the franchise to [[Vancouver, Canada|Vancouver]] real estate tycoon [[Nelson Skalbania]], who later became notorious for flipping property, both [[real estate|real]] and [[Professional sports league organization|franchised]].<ref>{{cite book | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=kdmMKQ_h1IwC&pg=PA19 | title=Calgary Flames: Fire on Ice | isbn=9781551537948 | last1=Stewart | first1=Monte | year=2004 | publisher=Heritage House Publishing Co}}</ref> Skalbania soon made local businessman [[Peter Pocklington]] a full partner, then sold his shares to him the following year. The team's fortunes improved dramatically in [[1978–79 WHA season|1978]] when Pocklington acquired underage player [[Wayne Gretzky]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/hockey/nhl/edmonton-oilers/edmonton-oilers-history-wha-team-acquires-wayne-gretzky-peter-driscoll-and-eddie-mio-from-indianapolis-racers-for-825000-nov-2-1978/ | title=Edmonton Oilers acquire Wayne Gretzky, Peter Driscoll and Eddie Mio from Indianapolis Racers for $825,000| work=edmontonjournal}}</ref> as well as goaltender [[Eddie Mio]] and forward [[Peter Driscoll]], for cash, from Skalbania's recently folded [[Indianapolis Racers]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/SearchPlayer.jsp?player=18630 |title=Eddie Dario Mio |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=November 10, 2010}}</ref>
His first year of WHA experience prevented Gretzky from being an official [[1979–80 NHL season|1979–80]] NHL rookie; his first and only WHA season, [[1978–79 WHA season|1978–79]], saw the Oilers finish first in the WHA standings, posting a league-best 48–30–2 record.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.shrpsports.com/wha/stand/1979.htm |title=Final WHA Standings 1978–79 |publisher=ShrpSports |access-date=November 4, 2010}}</ref> However, Edmonton failed to win the championship, as they fell to the [[Winnipeg Jets (1972–96)|Winnipeg Jets]] in the [[Avco World Trophy]] finals. [[Dave Semenko]] of the Oilers scored the last goal in WHA history in the third period of the final game, which they lost 7–3.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://thelongestlistofthelongeststuffatthelongestdomainnameatlonglast.com/last54.html |title=World's Last WHA Game |publisher=The Longest List of the Longest Stuff at the Longest Domain Name at Long Last |access-date=November 11, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091231044758/http://thelongestlistofthelongeststuffatthelongestdomainnameatlonglast.com/last54.html |archive-date=December 31, 2009 |url-status=usurped}}</ref>
The Oilers joined the NHL for [[1979–80 NHL season|1979–80]], along with fellow WHA teams [[Hartford Whalers]], [[Quebec Nordiques]] and the Jets following a [[NHL–WHA merger|merger agreement]] between the two leagues. Of these four teams, only Edmonton has avoided relocation and renaming; the Nordiques became the [[Colorado Avalanche]] in 1995, the Jets became the [[Arizona Coyotes|Phoenix Coyotes]] in 1996 and the Whalers became the [[Carolina Hurricanes]] in 1997.<ref>{{cite web |last=Wilkie |first=Bruce |url=http://thehockeywriters.com/nhl-wha-merger-30th-anniversary/ |title=NHL-WHA Merger 30th Anniversary |publisher=The Hockey Writers |access-date=November 11, 2010}}</ref>
===Entry into the NHL (1979–1983)===
[[File:Jari Kurri 2016.jpg|thumb|upright|The Oilers acquired [[Jari Kurri]] in the [[1980 NHL entry draft|1980]] draft. Kurri was one of several key acquisitions by the Oilers in the early 1980s.]]
The Oilers lost most of the players from 1978–79 when the NHL held a reclamation draft of players who had bolted to the upstart league as they were allowed to protect two goaltenders and two skaters.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://members.hockeyresearch.com/jkasiorek/79expdraft.html |title=1979 NHL Expansion Draft |publisher=The Home of the Oilers |access-date=November 11, 2010 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20031129065009/http://members.hockeyresearch.com/jkasiorek/79expdraft.html |archive-date =November 29, 2003}}</ref> Originally, Gretzky was not eligible to be protected; under the rules of the time, he normally would have been placed in the [[1979 NHL entry draft]] pool. However, Pocklington had signed him to a 21-year personal services contract in 1979 and Pocklington used the contract to force the NHL to admit the Oilers and allow the Oilers to keep Gretzky.<ref>{{cite web |last=McCurdy |first=Bruce |url=http://www.coppernblue.com/2010/1/26/1270163/happy-birthday-wayne-the-21-year |title="Happy birthday, Wayne": the 21-year, personal services contract |publisher=The Copper and Blue |date=January 26, 2010 |access-date=November 4, 2010}}</ref>
Upon joining the NHL, the Oilers were placed in the Campbell Conference's Smythe Division. They were mediocre during the regular season in their first two seasons, finishing 16th and 14th respectively. However, because 16 of the 21 NHL teams made the playoffs at the time, the Oilers were still able to get their young players experience in the playoffs (they made the playoffs for their first 13 years in the NHL).<ref name="Oilers season results">{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/EDM/ |title=Edmonton Oilers |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 11, 2010}}</ref> They won only one playoff series in their first three NHL seasons, though, upsetting the [[Montreal Canadiens]] in [[1980–81 NHL season|1980–81]]. Gretzky set new NHL records in [[1980–81 NHL season|1980–81]] for assists (109)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/leaders/assists_season.html |title=NHL & WHA Single Season Leaders and Records for Assists |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 19, 2010}}</ref> and points (164).<ref name="points"/> Also, they still had great draft positions. This allowed the Oilers to put together a young, talented, experienced team quickly. Within three years, Sather and chief scout [[Barry Fraser]] had drafted several players who would have an important role in the team's success, including [[Mark Messier]], [[Glenn Anderson]], [[Jari Kurri]], [[Paul Coffey]], [[Kevin Lowe]], [[Grant Fuhr]] and [[Andy Moog]].<ref name="draft">{{cite web |last=McCurdy |first=Bruce |url=http://www.coppernblue.com/2010/6/24/1535275/class-of-1980-best-oilers-draft |title=Class of 1980: Best Oilers draft ever? |publisher=The Copper and Blue |date=June 24, 2010 |access-date=November 11, 2010}}</ref>
The Oilers improved in [[1981–82 NHL season|1981–82]], finishing second overall. Grant Fuhr emerged as the starting goaltender and he set a rookie record by going undefeated in 23 straight games.<ref name="Fuhr">{{cite web |url=http://www.hockeydraftcentral.com/1981/81008.html |title=Grant Fuhr |publisher=Hockey Draft Central |access-date=November 11, 2010}}</ref> However, Gretzky stole the show by setting the single-season record for [[Goal (ice hockey)|goals]] with 92<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/leaders/goals_season.html |title=NHL & WHA Single Season Leaders and Records for Goals |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 11, 2010}}</ref> and becoming the first player in NHL history to score 200 points (with 212).<ref name="points">{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/leaders/points_season.html |title=NHL & WHA Single Season Leaders and Records for Points |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 11, 2010}}</ref> Gretzky's accomplishments helped the Oilers become the first team to score 400 goals in a season, a feat they accomplished for five straight years.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/display_standings.php?tmi=5632 |title=Standings for the Edmonton Oilers of the NHL |publisher=The Internet Hockey Database |access-date=November 11, 2010}}</ref> However, they were upset by the [[Los Angeles Kings]] in five games (game 3 of this series, the [[Miracle on Manchester]], saw the Oilers take a 5–0 lead into the third period, only to lose 6–5 in overtime).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/leagues/NHL_1982.html |title=1981–82 NHL Season Summary |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 11, 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://thehockeywriters.com/miracle-on-manchester-still-greatest-nhl-playoff-upset-of-all-time/ |title=Miracle on Manchester, Still Greatest NHL Playoff Upset of All Time |publisher=The Hockey Writers |date=April 29, 2010 |access-date=November 11, 2010}}</ref>
In [[1982–83 NHL season|1982–83]], the Oilers finished third overall in the NHL. They advanced all the way to the [[1983 Stanley Cup Final|Stanley Cup Final]] (losing only once in the process) before getting swept by defending Stanley Cup champion [[New York Islanders]].<ref name="1983 Edmonton Oilers">{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/EDM/1983.html |title=1982–83 Edmonton Oilers Roster and Statistics |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 11, 2010}}</ref> During this season, Gretzky, Messier, Anderson and Kurri all topped 100 points, with Coffey not far behind at 96.<ref name="1983 Edmonton Oilers"/> After the season, [[Lee Fogolin]] resigned as captain of the Oilers, picking Gretzky as his successor.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.oilersheritage.com/history/big_players_leefogolin.html |archive-url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20101208160446/http://www.oilersheritage.com/history/big_players_leefogolin.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=December 8, 2010 |title=Lee Fogolin-Like Father, Like Son |publisher=Edmonton Oilers Heritage |access-date=November 11, 2010}}</ref>
===Dynasty years (1983–1990)===
[[File:Stanley Cup - Basil Pocklington x'es.JPG|thumb|left|A close-up view of the engravings for the [[1983–84 NHL season|1983–84]] Edmonton Oilers, winners of the [[1984 Stanley Cup Final|1984 Stanley Cup]].]]
In [[1983–84 NHL season|1983–84]], the Oilers finished first overall in the NHL, winning a franchise record 57 games and earning 119 points (15 points ahead of the second-place Islanders). They were the first team to feature three players with 50 goals (Gretzky, Kurri, and Anderson).<ref name="Record Breakers">{{cite web |url=http://www.oilersheritage.com/memories/recordbreakers.html |archive-url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20101208160705/http://www.oilersheritage.com/memories/recordbreakers.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=December 8, 2010 |title=Record Breakers |publisher=Edmonton Oilers Heritage |access-date=November 15, 2010}}</ref> Gretzky started strong by scoring at least a point in the first 51 games of the season.<ref name="Gretzky Record Book">{{cite web |last=Fitzpatrick |first=Jamie |url=http://proicehockey.about.com/od/waynegretzky/a/gretzky_records.htm |title=The Wayne Gretzky Record Book |publisher=About.com |access-date=November 15, 2010 |archive-date=July 7, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707075249/http://proicehockey.about.com/od/waynegretzky/a/gretzky_records.htm |url-status=dead}}</ref> Paul Coffey became the second defenceman ever to score at least 40 goals in a season.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://records.nhl.com/records/skater-records/scoring-by-a-defenseman/most-goals-defenseman-one-season |title=Skater Records - Regular Season |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=June 7, 2025}}</ref> The team scored a total of 446 goals as a team, an NHL record.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hhof.com/html/dyntmoil.shtml |title=Edmonton Oilers 1983–84 to 1989–90 |publisher=Hockey Hall of Fame |access-date=November 15, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061031054551/http://www.hhof.com/html/dyntmoil.shtml |archive-date=October 31, 2006}}</ref> The Oilers were so determined to win the [[Stanley Cup]] that they hired [[Roger Neilson]] as a video analyst.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/LegendsMember.jsp?mem=b200201&type=Builder&page=bio&list=ByName#photo |title=Roger Neilson |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=December 5, 2010}}</ref> They started the [[1984 Stanley Cup playoffs|playoffs]] strongly by sweeping the Winnipeg Jets in the Smythe Division semifinals. They faced a tougher test in the [[Calgary Flames]], but they defeated them in seven games in the division finals. They then swept the [[Minnesota North Stars]] in the conference finals to earn a rematch with the Islanders in the [[1984 Stanley Cup Final|Stanley Cup Final]]. The Oilers split the first two games in Long Island but then won three in a row in Edmonton to become the first former WHA team to win the Stanley Cup. After the series, Mark Messier was awarded the [[Conn Smythe Trophy]] as playoff MVP.<ref name="Spoilers">{{cite web |last=Falla |first=Jack |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1122112/1/index.htm |archive-url=https://archive.today/20121203002635/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1122112/1/index.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=December 3, 2012 |title=The Oilers Were the Spoilers |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=May 28, 1984 |access-date=November 11, 2010}}</ref>
The [[1984–85 NHL season|following season]], the Oilers finished second overall in the NHL with 49 wins and 109 points. Gretzky led the NHL in goals with 73,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/g/gretzwa01.html |title=Wayne Gretzky |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 14, 2010}}</ref> and Kurri was close behind with a career-high 71.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/k/kurrija01.html |title=Jari Kurri |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 14, 2010}}</ref> Gretzky also became the youngest player in NHL history to score one thousand points.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.onthisday.com/sport/ice-hockey/ih-players/wayne-gretzky |title=Today in Wayne Gretzky History |publisher=OnThisDay.com |access-date=March 17, 2015}}</ref> In the playoffs, the Oilers swept the Kings in the opening round and Jets in round two. They won the first two games of the conference finals against the [[Chicago Black Hawks]] but lost the next two before winning the final two and returning to the Stanley Cup Final. Edmonton lost the first game to Philadelphia but won the next four to win the Stanley Cup for the second year in a row. Paul Coffey had a playoff performance to remember, setting records for most goals (12), assists (25), and points (37) ever by a defenceman in a playoff year.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.boltontoyota.com/PaulCoffey.aspx |title=Paul Coffey |publisher=Bolton Toyota |access-date=November 13, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110228094132/http://www.boltontoyota.com/PaulCoffey.aspx |archive-date=February 28, 2011}}</ref> In addition, Jari Kurri tied [[Reggie Leach]]'s record for most goals in a playoff year, with 19.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://statshockey.homestead.com/nhlrecords.html |title=NHL Records |publisher=StatsHockey.net |access-date=November 14, 2010 |archive-date=July 21, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721065135/http://statshockey.homestead.com/nhlrecords.html |url-status=dead}}</ref> However, Gretzky won the Conn Smythe Trophy after setting the record for most points in a playoff year (47).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/SilverwareTrophyWinner.jsp?tro=CST&year=1984-85 |title=Gretzky, Wayne |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=November 1, 2010}}</ref> The 1984–85 Oilers were voted as the greatest NHL team of all-time during the league's centennial celebrations in 2017.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Hackel|first1=Stu|title=1984–85 Oilers voted No. 1 Greatest NHL Team|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/1985-edmonton-oilers-greatest-nhl-teams/c-289776318|publisher=National Hockey League|access-date=February 3, 2018|date=June 6, 2017}}</ref>
[[File:Wayne Gretzky statue 6.jpg|upright|thumb|A statue of [[Wayne Gretzky]] stands outside [[Rogers Place]]. Playing with the Oilers from 1978 to 1988, he led the Oilers to four Stanley Cups.]]
Despite off-season legal issues,<ref name="Spoilers"/><ref>{{cite web |url=https://vault.si.com/vault/1986/05/12/the-joyless-end-of-a-joyride|title=The Joyless End Of a Joyride|magazine=Sports Illustrated|access-date=May 27, 2022|first1=Armen|last1=Keteyian|date=May 12, 1986}}</ref> the Oilers were again the top team in the NHL during the [[1985–86 NHL season|1985–86 season]], with 56 wins and 119 points. They won the inaugural [[Presidents' Trophy]], the trophy given to the team with the best regular season record. Gretzky, Kurri, and Anderson each scored 50 goals again.<ref name="Record Breakers"/> Kurri led the NHL in goals with 68, finishing with 131 points. Paul Coffey set a new record for most goals in a season by a defenceman (48) and just missed setting a new record for points by a defenceman with 138 ([[Bobby Orr]] scored 139 in [[1970–71 NHL season|1970–71]]).<ref>{{cite web |last=Pelletier |first=Joe |url=http://www.greatesthockeylegends.com/2009/02/can-defenseman-mike-green-score-50.html |title=Can Defenseman Mike Green Score 50? |publisher=Greatest Hockey Legends |date=February 15, 2009 |access-date=November 13, 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bov.ch/hockey/season.html |title=Individual Single Season Records |publisher=bov.ch |access-date=November 13, 2010}}</ref> Gretzky also set records for assists (163) and points (215).<ref name="Gretzky Record Book"/> However, the Oilers failed to win their third-straight Stanley Cup, as the Calgary Flames defeated them in seven games in the second round. In the third period of a 2–2 tie during game 7, [[Steve Smith (ice hockey, born April 30, 1963)|Steve Smith]], a rookie for the Oilers, accidentally sent the puck into his own net on his birthday. This goal stood as the series-winning goal.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.oilersheritage.com/history/dynasty_players_stevesmith.html |title=Steve Smith |publisher=Edmonton Oilers Heritage |access-date=November 18, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120302123853/http://www.oilersheritage.com/history/dynasty_players_stevesmith.html |archive-date=March 2, 2012}}</ref>
The [[1986–87 NHL season|1986–87 season]] saw the Oilers capture their second straight Presidents' Trophy with 50 wins and 106 points. Gretzky and Kurri were first and second in the NHL point-scoring race, while Messier was fourth.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/leagues/NHL_1987_leaders.html |title=1986–87 NHL Expanded Leaders |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 14, 2010}}</ref> Edmonton returned to the Stanley Cup Final and faced the same opponent as they had in 1985, the Philadelphia Flyers. The Oilers took a three-games-to-one lead in the series. However, strong goaltending by Flyers' rookie [[Ron Hextall]] forced a game 7, which the Oilers won, 3–1. In the post-game celebration, Gretzky immediately passed the Stanley Cup to Steve Smith, vindicated after his costly blunder the previous season.<ref>{{cite web |last=McCurdy |first=Bruce |url=http://www.coppernblue.com/2010/2/3/1290260/the-team-that-wouldnt-die |title=The team that wouldn't die-the 1987 Philadelphia Flyers |publisher=The Copper and Blue |date=February 3, 2010 |access-date=November 12, 2010}}</ref> Hextall won the Conn Smythe Trophy.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/SearchPlayer.jsp?player=18289 |title=Ron Jeffrey Hextall |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=November 15, 2010}}</ref>
In 1987, the team were the subject of [[Bob McKeown]]'s documentary film ''[[The Boys on the Bus (film)|The Boys on the Bus]]''.<ref name=nugget>[https://www.newspapers.com/article/north-bay-nugget/174829163/ "Oilers' season captured in film Boys on the Bus"]. ''[[North Bay Nugget]]'', October 20, 1987.</ref>
The Oilers began losing star players in [[1987–88 NHL season|1987–88]]. Paul Coffey sat out the first 21 games of the season before getting traded to the [[Pittsburgh Penguins]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Swift |first=E. |url=https://www.si.com/vault/1987/12/14/116807/the-penguins-are-percolating-a-blockbuster-trade-for-star-defenseman-paul-coffey-has-playoff-hopes-abrewing-in-long-deprived-pittsburgh |title=The Penguins Are Percolating |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=December 14, 1987 |access-date=May 25, 2018}}</ref> Andy Moog also failed to report; he was tired of being the backup goaltender. Moog played for the [[Canada men's national ice hockey team|Canadian Olympic team]] in the [[1988 Winter Olympics]] before getting traded to the [[Boston Bruins]] for [[Bill Ranford]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Luedeke |first=Kirk |url=http://bruins2010draftwatch.blogspot.com/2009/12/bruins-sweaters-of-past-6-andy-moog.html |title=Bruins Sweaters of the Past #6: Andy Moog |publisher=Bruins 2010 Draft Watch |date=December 16, 2009 |access-date=November 11, 2010}}</ref> Despite the changes, the Oilers placed third overall in the NHL. Grant Fuhr started a league-record 75 games (which has now been broken)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/leaders/games_goalie_season.html |title=NHL & WHA Single Season Leaders and Records for Games Played |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 17, 2010}}</ref> and posted a team-record 40 wins.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.goaliesarchive.com/oilers/records.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030504183800/http://www.goaliesarchive.com/oilers/records.html |url-status=usurped |archive-date=May 4, 2003 |title=Edmonton Oilers goaltending records |publisher=Edmonton Oilers |access-date=November 17, 2010}}</ref> In the first round of the playoffs, the Oilers dispatched the third-place Winnipeg Jets in five games. The Oilers then defeated first-overall Calgary in a sweep. In the conference finals against the [[Detroit Red Wings]], the Oilers prevailed in five games. The Oilers then swept the [[Boston Bruins]] in four games. The fourth game had to be re-played because of a cancellation. With the score tied 3–3 with 3:23 to play in the second period, a power outage hit the [[Boston Garden]], forcing cancellation of the entire game. The Oilers won the next game (originally scheduled as game five) back in Edmonton 6–3 to complete the series sweep. However, all player statistics for the aborted game four in Boston are counted in the NHL record books. Gretzky won the Conn Smythe Trophy after leading the playoffs in scoring with 43 points. After the Cup-clinching game, Gretzky implored his teammates, coaches, trainers, and others from the Oilers organization to join at centre ice for an impromptu team photo with the Stanley Cup. This started a tradition since continued by every subsequent Stanley Cup champion.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/sportscenter/post/_/id/54562/this-day-in-sports-wayne-gretzky-caps-oilers-career-with-five-game-sweep |title=This Day in Sports: Wayne Gretzky Caps Oilers Career With Five-Game Sweep |publisher=ESPN |date=May 26, 2010 |access-date=November 12, 2010}}</ref> After the season, Fuhr was awarded the [[Vezina Trophy]] as the NHL's top goaltender.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/SilverwareTrophyWinner.jsp?tro=VZT&year=1987-88 |title=Fuhr, Grant |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=November 16, 2010}}</ref>
====After Gretzky (1988–1990)====
[[File:Mark Messier 2016.jpg|thumb|upright|left|[[Mark Messier]] was named the Oilers' team captain shortly following the Gretzky trade.]]
In a surprising and shocking trade, Gretzky, along with enforcer [[Marty McSorley]] and centre [[Mike Krushelnyski]], were traded to the Los Angeles Kings on August 9, 1988. In exchange, the Oilers received US$15 million, young star [[Jimmy Carson]], 1988 first-round draft choice [[Martin Gélinas|Martin Gelinas]], and the Kings' first-round draft picks in 1989, 1991, and 1993. The trade occurred because Pocklington did not want to risk Gretzky leaving Edmonton without getting anything in return. Gretzky had converted his chance at free agency and refused, which ultimately led to the trade. None of this was public knowledge at the time.<ref>{{cite web |last=Staples |first=David |url=http://communities.canada.com/edmontonjournal/blogs/hockey/archive/2009/03/11/in-defence-of-peter-pocklington.aspx |title=In defence of Peter Pocklington (and his sale of Wayne Gretzky) ... |work=Edmonton Journal |date=March 11, 2009 |access-date=November 17, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090515083521/http://communities.canada.com/edmontonjournal/blogs/hockey/archive/2009/03/11/in-defence-of-peter-pocklington.aspx |archive-date=May 15, 2009}}</ref> However, the Oilers and their fans were still upset. [[Nelson Riis]], the [[New Democratic Party (Canada)|New Democratic Party]] leader in Canada's [[House of Commons of Canada|House of Commons]], went so far as to ask the government to block the trade.<ref>{{cite web |last=MacNeil |first=Rob |url=http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/08/05/gretzky_trade_rumours_timeline/ |title=The Gretzky Trade: Rumours & Timeline |publisher=Sportsnet.ca |date=August 5, 2008 |access-date=November 16, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120620095200/http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/08/05/gretzky_trade_rumours_timeline/ |archive-date=June 20, 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Several of the Oilers considered launching a team-wide strike and even considered demanding that Pocklington sell the team.<ref name=p115>{{cite book |last=Klein |first=Jeff |title=Messier |publisher=Doubleday Canada |___location=Toronto |year=2004 |page=[https://archive.org/details/messier0000klei/page/115 115] |isbn=0-385-65907-5 |url-access=registration |url=https://archive.org/details/messier0000klei/page/115}}</ref>
The loss of Gretzky had an immediate impact in [[1988–89 NHL season|1988–89]], as the Oilers were only able to finish in third place in their division. Mark Messier was chosen to succeed Gretzky as captain.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/LegendsMember.jsp?mem=P200703&type=Player&page=bio&list=ByName#photo |title=Mark Messier |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=December 1, 2010}}</ref> Coincidentally, the Oilers' first-round playoff opponent was Gretzky's Los Angeles Kings. Edmonton took a commanding 3–1 series lead, but Gretzky and the Kings fought back to win the series, winning game 7 6–3 in Los Angeles. It was the first time since 1982 that the Oilers had been eliminated from the playoffs in the first round.
The Oilers underwent more changes during the [[1989–90 NHL season|1989–90 season]]. [[John Muckler]] replaced Sather, who remained general manager and became the Oilers' president, as head coach of the team.<ref name="Muckler">{{cite web |url=http://www.oilersheritage.com/legacy/contributions_coaches_johnmuckler.html |archive-url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20101208160558/http://www.oilersheritage.com/legacy/contributions_coaches_johnmuckler.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=December 8, 2010 |title=John Muckler |publisher=Edmonton Oilers Heritage |access-date=December 1, 2010}}</ref> During training camp, Grant Fuhr came down with a severe case of appendicitis. He missed the first 10 games of the season and when he returned he suffered a shoulder injury that eventually sidelined him for the remainder of the season.<ref name="Fuhr"/> This marked the emergence of Bill Ranford as a starter. Four games into the season, Jimmy Carson decided the pressure of playing in Edmonton was too intense and he was traded to Detroit with [[Kevin McClelland]] in exchange for [[Petr Klíma|Petr Klima]], [[Adam Graves]], [[Joe Murphy (ice hockey)|Joe Murphy]] and [[Jeff Sharples]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/SearchPlayer.jsp?player=10226 |title=Jimmy Charles Carson |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=December 3, 2010}}</ref> The Oilers improved on their previous season, finishing with 38 wins and 90 points, good for fifth place overall in the NHL. Messier had 45 goals and 84 assists for 129 points, good for second in the NHL scoring race (behind only Gretzky).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/leagues/NHL_1990_leaders.html |title=1989–90 NHL Expanded Leaders |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=December 3, 2010}}</ref>
In the first round, the Oilers faced the Winnipeg Jets. Trailing the series 3–1 and trailing game 5 by an identical score, the Oilers rallied to win the next three and take the series. In the division final, the Oilers met Los Angeles for the second straight season. Edmonton swept the series 4–0, outscoring the Kings 22–10. The Oilers then met the Chicago Blackhawks in the conference finals and fell behind 2–1 in the series. However, the Oilers won the next three games to earn a rematch of the 1988 Stanley Cup Final with Boston. The series is remembered for game 1, still the longest Stanley Cup Final game played in the modern NHL. Despite being soundly outshot by the Bruins, the Oilers won the game 3–2 when Klima—benched for much of the game and thus the only player on either team who was not exhausted—scored at 15:13 of the third overtime.<ref>{{cite web |last=Sexton |first=Joe |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1990/05/16/sports/klima-s-goal-in-3d-overtime-wins-cup-opener-for-oilers.html |title=Klima's Goal in 3d Overtime Wins Cup Opener for Oilers |work=The New York Times |date=May 16, 1990 |access-date=December 3, 2010}}</ref> The Oilers defeated the Bruins in five games and won their first Cup without Gretzky. For his superlative goaltending, Bill Ranford won the Conn Smythe Trophy.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/SilverwareTrophyWinner.jsp?tro=CST&year=1989-90 |title=Ranford, Bill |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=December 3, 2010}}</ref>
===Decline in success (1990–1996)===
The Oilers lost another important player before the [[1990–91 NHL season|1990–91 season]], as Jari Kurri chose to play the entire season with [[HC Devils Milano|Devils Milano]]. Grant Fuhr was suspended for 60 games for drug abuse.<ref>{{cite web |last=Scher |first=Jon |url=https://www.si.com/vault/1993/05/03/128515/stanley-cup-playoffs-twin-peaks-grant-fuhr-of-the-sabres-and-curtis-joseph-of-the-blues-reached-unexpected-heights-in-leading-their-teams-to-shocking-first-round-upsets |title=Twin Peaks |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=May 3, 1993 |access-date=May 25, 2018}}</ref> The season itself was not great for the Oilers, who finished with 37 wins and 80 points, in third place in the Smythe Division. In the playoffs, the Oilers met the Flames in the opening round, winning a thrilling series in seven games, led by seven goals by [[Esa Tikkanen]]. Despite injuries suffered in the series with Calgary, they next defeated the Los Angeles Kings in six games. However, their success did not continue into the conference finals, as they lost in five games to the Minnesota North Stars.
The final star players from the Oilers left before the [[1991–92 NHL season|1991–92 season]]. Fuhr and Glenn Anderson were traded to Toronto,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1991/09/20/sports/hockey-oilers-trade-fuhr-and-anderson.html |title=HOCKEY; Oilers Trade Fuhr and Anderson |work=The New York Times |date=September 20, 1991 |access-date=December 3, 2010}}</ref> Steve Smith was traded to Chicago,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/SearchPlayer.jsp?player=11529 |title=Steve James Stephen Smith |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=December 4, 2010}}</ref> and Kurri was traded to Philadelphia.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1090338/bio |title=Jari Kurri |publisher=The Internet Movie Database |access-date=December 4, 2010}}</ref> Charlie Huddy was claimed by Minnesota in the expansion draft,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/SearchPlayer.jsp?player=10674 |title=Charlie William Huddy |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=December 4, 2010}}</ref> and Mark Messier was traded to the [[New York Rangers]] a day after the season began.<ref>{{cite web |last=Bondy |first=Filip |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1991/10/05/sports/hockey-rangers-roll-the-dice-and-trade-for-messier.html?ref=mark_messier |title=HOCKEY; Rangers Roll the Dice and Trade for Messier |work=The New York Times |date=October 5, 1991 |access-date=December 4, 2010}}</ref> The Oilers even lost their head coach, as [[John Muckler]] left to become head coach and general manager of the [[Buffalo Sabres]].<ref name="Muckler"/> [[Ted Green]] replaced Muckler as head coach,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/SearchPlayer.jsp?player=12779 |title=Ted Joseph Green |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=December 4, 2010}}</ref> and Kevin Lowe succeeded Messier as captain.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://oilers.nhl.com/club/page.htm?bcid=18693 |title=Kevin Lowe |publisher=Edmonton Oilers |access-date=December 4, 2010}}</ref>
Despite the number of changes, the Oilers produced a comparable season to 1990–91, finishing third in the Smythe Division with 36 wins and 82 points. In the first round of the playoffs, the Oilers again met the Los Angeles Kings. Again, for the third time since the Gretzky trade, the Oilers defeated the Kings. In the next round, the Oilers defeated the [[Vancouver Canucks]] in six games to return to the conference finals for the third straight season, this time facing the Chicago Blackhawks. However, the Oilers' unexpected run in the playoffs came to a crashing halt, as the Blackhawks dominated every game and swept the series.
The departures of the stars from the 1980s exposed serious deficiencies in the Oilers' development system. They had done a poor job of drafting during the dynasty years,<ref name="draft"/> and the younger players had not had enough time to develop before the core of the 1980s dynasty left the team. This did not become apparent for a few years; as noted above, the Oilers still had enough heft to make the conference finals two years in a row. However, it was obvious that they were nowhere near being the powerhouse that had dominated the league in the previous half-decade. In [[1992–93 NHL season|1992–93]], they missed the playoffs for the first time as an NHL team. They did not return to the postseason for four years, despite the emergence of young centremen [[Doug Weight]] and [[Jason Arnott]]. In the [[1993–94 NHL season|1993–94 season]], the Oilers were placed into the Western Conference's Pacific Division.
===Return to the playoffs and seventh Cup Final appearance (1996–2006)===
In [[1996–97 NHL season|1996–97]], the Oilers made the playoffs for the first time in five years, thanks to stellar goaltending by [[Curtis Joseph]]. In the first round, they upset the [[Dallas Stars]], who had compiled the league's second-best record, in a seven-game series. The Oilers won game seven on a goal by [[Todd Marchant]] in [[overtime (hockey)|overtime]]. However, the Oilers' surprise playoff run failed to continue, as the Colorado Avalanche defeated them in the next round. In [[1997–98 NHL season|1997–98]], Joseph led the Oilers to another first-round upset. After Colorado took a 3–1 series lead, the Oilers held them scoreless for eight straight periods en route to winning the series in seven games. Dallas and Edmonton met again in the second round, but this time, the Stars were the victors. The Oilers made the playoffs in four of the next six years, but they were defeated after the first round every time.
[[File:Cal Nichols in 2006.png|thumb|upright|[[Cal Nichols]] spearheaded the [[Edmonton Investors Group]]'s purchase of the Oilers franchise in 1998.]]
Despite their success over the past two seasons, the Oilers were in trouble off the ice. Owner Peter Pocklington had explored moving the Oilers to Minnesota during the 1990s. In 1998, Pocklington almost made a deal to sell the team to [[Leslie Alexander (businessman)|Leslie Alexander]], the owner of the [[Houston Rockets]] of the [[National Basketball Association]] (NBA), who would have moved the team to [[Houston]]. On March 14, 1998, hours before the deadline to keep the team in Edmonton, the [[Edmonton Investors Group]] agreed to pay $70 million to buy the club.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.edmontonjournal.com/2012/09/19/daryl-katz-remembers-buying-an-oilers-team-at-risk-of-leaving-edmonton-but-is-that-how-it-actually-happened |title=Daryl Katz remembers buying an Oilers team "at risk" of leaving Edmonton – but is that how it actually happened? |access-date=May 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150910192640/http://blogs.edmontonjournal.com/2012/09/19/daryl-katz-remembers-buying-an-oilers-team-at-risk-of-leaving-edmonton-but-is-that-how-it-actually-happened/ |archive-date=September 10, 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The EIG were spearheaded by [[Cal Nichols]], who committed to retaining NHL hockey in Edmonton. The deal was finalized on May 5,<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.gasland.com/cal-nichols.php | title=Cal Nichols | Gasland Properties Ltd}}</ref> and thus prevented them from being the third Canadian team to move in the 1990s and the fourth former WHA team to move in successive years (Quebec had moved in 1995, Winnipeg in 1996 and Hartford in 1997). The Oilers received support from the NHL for this very reason.<ref name="loonie">{{cite web |last=Weiner |first=Evan |url=https://www.nysun.com/sports/canada-gains-expansion-value-with-loonie/63509/ |title=Canada Gains Expansion Value With Loonie |work=The New York Sun |publisher=New York Sun |date=September 27, 2007 |access-date=November 16, 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.oilersheritage.com/legacy/contributions_owners_EIG.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040504045258/http://www.oilersheritage.com/legacy/contributions_owners_EIG.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=May 4, 2004 |title=Edmonton Investors Group Ltd.-A last-minute reprieve |publisher=Edmonton Oilers Heritage |access-date=December 5, 2010}}</ref> In the 1998–99 season, the Oilers joined the Western Conference's Northwest Division.
On November 22, 2003, the Oilers hosted the [[2003 Heritage Classic]], the first regular season outdoor hockey game in the NHL's history and part of the celebrations of the Oilers' 25th season in the NHL. They were defeated by the Montreal Canadiens 4–3 in front of more than 55,000 fans, an NHL attendance record, at [[Commonwealth Stadium (Edmonton)|Commonwealth Stadium]] in Edmonton. The Oilers failed to make the playoffs in the [[2003–04 NHL season|2003–04 season]].
The Oilers struggled with their small-market status for several years, but after the wiped-out 2004–05 season, they were aided by a [[NHL Collective Bargaining Agreement|Collective Bargaining Agreement]] (CBA) between the NHL owners and players. This included a league-wide salary cap that essentially forced all teams to conform to a budget, as the Oilers had been doing for years.<ref>{{cite web |last=Allen |first=Kevin |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/nhl/2009-09-28-nhl-salary-cap_N.htm |title=With NHL's salary cap comes a leveling of the ice |work=USA Today |date=September 29, 2009 |access-date=November 19, 2010}}</ref> A more reasonable conversion rate of [[Canadian dollar]] revenues to [[US dollar]] payroll in the new millennium also helped the Oilers to return to profitability.<ref name="loonie"/> Because of this, Edmonton was able to acquire [[Chris Pronger]] (former winner of the [[Hart Memorial Trophy|Hart]] and [[James Norris Memorial Trophy|Norris]] Trophies)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/SilverwareTrophyWinner.jsp?tro=HMT&year=1999-2000 |title=Pronger, Chris |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=November 20, 2010}}</ref> and [[Michael Peca]] (two-time [[Frank J. Selke Trophy]] winner)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/awards/selke.html |title=NHL Frank J. Selke Trophy Winners |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 20, 2010}}</ref> before the [[2005–06 NHL season|2005–06 season]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/SearchPlayer.jsp?player=14984 |title=Chris Robert Pronger |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=November 19, 2010}}</ref><ref name="Peca">{{cite web |last=Ciampa |first=Marc |url=http://oilers.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=430843 |title=FEATURE: Peca finds his game |publisher=Edmonton Oilers |date=April 24, 2006 |access-date=November 19, 2010}}</ref>
[[File:Edmonton Oilers Goalie (6) ROLOSON (3308097413).jpg|left|thumb|Acquired through a trade in 2006, [[Dwayne Roloson]] emerged as the Oilers' starting goaltender from 2006 to 2009.]]
The team suffered from inconsistency during the first few months of the regular season, especially in goal and offence. Goaltenders [[Ty Conklin]] and [[Jussi Markkanen]] were unreliable in net and Peca also struggled with offence.<ref name="Peca"/><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/c/conklty01/gamelog/2006/ |title=Ty Conklin 2005–06 Game Log |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 20, 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/m/markkju01/gamelog/2006/ |title=Jussi Markkanen 2005–06 Game Log |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 20, 2010}}</ref> However, in-season acquisitions, such as defencemen [[Jaroslav Špaček|Jaroslav Spacek]]<ref>{{cite web |author=Edmonton Oilers |url=http://oilers.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=429875 |title=Oilers acquire Jaroslav Spacek |publisher=Edmonton Oilers |date=January 26, 2006 |access-date=November 20, 2010}}</ref> and [[Dick Tärnström|Dick Tarnstrom]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/jsp/SearchPlayer.jsp?player=10417 |title=Dick Tarnstrom |publisher=Legends of Hockey |access-date=November 20, 2010}}</ref> goaltender [[Dwayne Roloson]] and left winger [[Sergei Samsonov]],<ref>{{cite web |author=Edmonton Oilers |url=http://oilers.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=430142 |title=Oilers acquire Sergei Samsonov from Boston |publisher=Edmonton Oilers |date=September 3, 2006 |access-date=November 20, 2010}}</ref> helped Edmonton finish the season with 95 points and clinch the final playoff spot in the Western Conference over Vancouver.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/leagues/NHL_2006.html |title=2005–06 NHL Season Summary |publisher=Hockey-Reference.com |access-date=November 21, 2010}}</ref>
In the first round of the playoffs, the Oilers played the Detroit Red Wings (winners of the Presidents' Trophy).<ref>{{cite web |last=Starkey |first=Ted |url=http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2010/apr/04/caps-clinch-presidents-trophy/ |title=Caps clinch Presidents' Trophy |work=The Washington Times |date=April 4, 2010 |access-date=November 21, 2010}}</ref> Despite Detroit's much better regular season record, the Oilers pulled off a six-game upset for their first playoff series win since 1998.<ref name="Oilers season results"/> Edmonton then met the [[San Jose Sharks]] in the conference semifinals. After trailing the series two games to none, the team won the next four and became the first eighth-seeded team to reach a conference final since the NHL changed the playoff format in [[1993–94 NHL season|1994]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Chiasson |first=Paul |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/cup/2006-05-23-ducks-oilers-game3_x.htm |title=Oilers shoot down Mighty Ducks 5–4 to move one win from Stanley Cup finals |work=USA Today |date=May 25, 2006 |access-date=November 21, 2010}}</ref> There, the Oilers beat the sixth-seeded [[Mighty Ducks of Anaheim]] in five games, claiming the [[Clarence S. Campbell Bowl]] for a seventh time.
In the [[2006 Stanley Cup Final]], Edmonton met the [[Carolina Hurricanes]]. During game 1, the Oilers blew a 3–0 lead, lost Dwayne Roloson for the series after he suffered a knee injury, and ultimately lost 5–4 when Carolina's captain [[Rod Brind'Amour]] scored the winning goal in the final minute after backup goaltender Ty Conklin misplayed the puck. From that game forward, the Oilers used Jussi Markkanen in net.<ref>{{cite web |last=Campigotto |first=Jesse |url=http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/stanleycup2006/blogs/2006/06/edmonton_vs_carolina_game_2_st.html |title=Edmonton vs. Carolina – Game 2, Stanley Cup Final |publisher=[[Canadian Broadcasting Corporation]] |access-date=November 21, 2010}}</ref> Despite trailing the series 2–0 and 3–1, the Oilers forced a game 7 with a 2–1 win in game 3, a [[Fernando Pisani]] short-handed overtime winner in game 5 and a 4–0 shutout for Markkanen in game 6. However, the Oilers could not complete the comeback as the Hurricanes won game 7 3–1 to capture their first-ever Stanley Cup.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://hurricanes.nhl.com/club/page.htm?id=45638 |title=Franchise Timeline |publisher=Carolina Hurricanes |access-date=November 21, 2010}}</ref>
===Collapse and 10-year playoff drought (2006–2015)===
[[File:2010 NHL Entry Draft 011-Kat.jpg|thumb|[[Daryl Katz]] purchased the Oilers from the Edmonton Investors Group in 2008.]]
In the 2006 off-season, many Oilers left the team. Four days after their loss to the Hurricanes, Chris Pronger surprisingly issued a trade request for personal reasons. Pronger was subsequently traded to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for [[Joffrey Lupul]], [[Ladislav Šmíd|Ladislav Smid]], and three draft picks.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/news/story?id=2508253 |title=Oilers trade Pronger to Ducks for Lupul, others |publisher=ESPN |date=July 5, 2006 |access-date=November 21, 2010}}</ref> Several Oilers left via free agency and during the season, long-time Oiler [[Ryan Smyth]] was traded to the New York Islanders for [[Ryan O'Marra]], [[Robert Nilsson]] and a first-round pick in the [[2007 NHL entry draft]] (used to select [[Alex Plante]]).<ref name="Smyth trade">{{cite news|title=Oilers trade forward Smyth to Islanders|work=TSN|publisher=The Sports Network|date=February 28, 2007|url=https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=197922&hubname=nhl|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080219080603/http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=197922&hubname=nhl|archive-date=February 19, 2008|access-date=May 20, 2007}}</ref> However, the Oilers were able to re-sign Dwayne Roloson and Fernando Pisani. Having lost so many players, the Oilers posted a 32–43–7 record in [[2006–07 NHL season|2006–07]], their worst record since the 1995–96 season, and eventually finished in 11th place in the Western Conference. Throughout the season, the Oilers lost various players to injury and illness; at one point, they had 11 players out of the lineup and had to rely on emergency call-ups to fill their roster.<ref>{{cite news|title=Beat-up Oilers have much to play for|work=CBC Sports|publisher =[[Canadian Broadcasting Corporation]]|date=March 7, 2007|url=http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/beat-up-oilers-have-much-to-play-for-1.671478|access-date=May 25, 2018}}</ref>
In [[2007–08 NHL season|2007–08]], the Oilers had a 16–21–4 record after the first half of the season. They improved in the second half of the year, however, going 25–14–2 in 41 games for a final record of 41–35–6. Nonetheless, this was not enough to qualify for the playoffs, as the Oilers finished three points out in ninth place. During the season, [[Daryl Katz]], owner of the [[Rexall (Canada)|Rexall pharmaceutical company]], purchased the team from the Edmonton Investors Group.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/oilers-owner-katz-buys-downtown-site-1.780903 |title=Oilers owner Katz buys downtown site |publisher=[[Canadian Broadcasting Corporation]] |date=August 27, 2009 |access-date=May 25, 2018}}</ref> The Oilers announced a restructuring of their hockey operations on July 30, 2008, which saw the promotion of Kevin Lowe to the role of president of hockey operations and was replaced by [[Steve Tambellini]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-announce-new-hockey-ops-structure/c-430443 | title=Oilers announce new Hockey Ops structure}}</ref>
The [[2008–09 NHL season|2008–09 season]] saw the Oilers finish with a record of 38–35–9, but that was only good enough for 11th in the West. However, one bright spot during the season was Oilers goaltender Dwayne Roloson, as he became the oldest goaltender to play 60 NHL games in one season.<ref>{{cite web |agency=Associated Press |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/nhl/2009-04-01-ducks-oilers_N.htm |title=Niedermayer's big night drives Ducks past Oilers 5–3 |work=USA Today |date=April 1, 2009 |access-date=November 28, 2010}}</ref> After the season, the Oilers fired head coach [[Craig MacTavish]] and hired [[Pat Quinn (ice hockey)|Pat Quinn]] as his replacement.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=423845 |title=Oilers hire Pat Quinn as coach |publisher=National Hockey League |date=May 26, 2009 |access-date=November 28, 2010}}</ref>
Roloson left via free agency at the end of the season,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=283429 |title=Islanders Sign Roloson to Two-Year Contract |publisher=TSN |date=July 1, 2009 |access-date=November 20, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100529114208/http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=283429 |archive-date=May 29, 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref> and the Oilers replaced him in goal with [[Nikolai Khabibulin]].<ref>{{cite web |author=CBC Sports |url=http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/oilers-ink-khabibulin-for-15m-1.819227 |title=Oilers ink Khabibulin for $15M |publisher=[[Canadian Broadcasting Corporation]] |date=July 2, 2009 |access-date=May 25, 2018}}</ref> The Oilers also worked out a trade with the [[Ottawa Senators]] for star right wing [[Dany Heatley]], which would have seen [[Dustin Penner]], Ladislav Smid and [[Andrew Cogliano]] go the other way, but Heatley refused a trade to Edmonton and was later acquired by San Jose.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/news/story?id=4298646 |title=Heatley refuses to waive no-trade clause |publisher=ESPN |date=July 1, 2009 |access-date=November 28, 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/northwest-notebook-heatley-will-hear-plenty-of-boos-in-edmonton/c-507679 | title=Northwest Notebook: Heatley will hear plenty of boos in Edmonton}}</ref>
Following the season, [[Tom Renney]] replaced Quinn as the Oilers head coach.<ref>{{cite web |agency=Associated Press |url=http://msn.foxsports.com/nhl/story/Pat-Quinn-out-Tom-Renney-in-as-Oilers-coach-062210 |title=Quinn out as Oilers coach, Renney promoted |work=Fox Sports |date=June 22, 2010 |access-date=November 28, 2010}}</ref> The one advantage to such a bad season was that the Oilers were able to make the first pick in the [[2010 NHL entry draft]]. The Oilers selected two-time [[Stafford Smythe Memorial Trophy]] winner [[Taylor Hall]] from the [[Windsor Spitfires]] with their pick.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-select-hall-with-1st-overall-choice/c-532689 | title=Oilers select Hall with 1st overall choice}}</ref> They used the off-season to begin the rebuild of the club around their young talent.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/news/hall-key-in-oilers-plans-to-get-younger-faster/c-535579 | title=Hall key in Oilers' plans to get younger, faster}}</ref> [[Patrick O'Sullivan (ice hockey)|Patrick O'Sullivan]] was traded to the Phoenix Coyotes in exchange for [[Jim Vandermeer]], [[Robert Nilsson]] was bought out of his contract and Oilers captain [[Ethan Moreau]] was placed on waivers and claimed by the [[Columbus Blue Jackets]]. Along with these players, several others were allowed to enter free agency, including [[Mike Comrie]], [[Marc-Antoine Pouliot]] and [[Ryan Potulny]]. Also during the off-season, radio announcer [[Rod Phillips (broadcaster)|Rod Phillips]] announced his retirement. Phillips had been the Oilers' play-by-play announcer since [[1973–74 WHA season|1973–74]]. Phillips called 10 specific games in [[2010–11 NHL season|2010–11]] before calling it quits.<ref>{{cite web |publisher=National Hockey League |url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=530427 |title=Oilers radio announcer Rod Phillips to retire |date=May 28, 2010 |access-date=November 28, 2010}}</ref> The [[2010–11 Edmonton Oilers season]] is documented in the series ''[[Oil Change (TV series)|Oil Change]]''.
[[File:Blues vs. Oilers-9077 (6645597239).jpg|left|thumb|upright|The Oilers drafted [[Taylor Hall]] with the first overall pick in the [[2010 NHL entry draft|2010]] draft. He played with the Oilers from 2010 to 2016.]]
The 2010–11 season brought a new look to the Edmonton Oilers line-up, when [[Shawn Horcoff]] was selected to succeed Ethan Moreau as team captain. Horcoff had become the Oilers' longest-serving player by this point.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/horcoff-named-oilers-13th-captain/c-539702 | title=Horcoff named Oilers 13th captain}}</ref> Taylor Hall, [[Jordan Eberle]] and [[Magnus Pääjärvi|Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson]] all made their NHL debuts for the team. Despite the influx of their young talent, Edmonton still found themselves at the bottom of the standings. In an attempt to gain valuable prospects and draft picks, Dustin Penner was traded from the Oilers to Los Angeles on February 28, 2011, in exchange for [[Colten Teubert]], a first-round draft pick in [[2011 NHL entry draft|2011]] (used to select [[Oscar Klefbom]]) and a conditional third-round pick in [[2012 NHL entry draft|2012]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=554520|title=Kings acquire Penner for prospect, picks|publisher=National Hockey League|date=February 28, 2011|access-date=February 28, 2011}}</ref> At the end of the season, the Oilers were at the bottom of the standings and received the right to choose first overall in the upcoming [[2011 NHL entry draft]]. The Oilers selected [[Ryan Nugent-Hopkins]] with the first overall selection, along with several other "blue chip" prospects. During the 2011 off-season, the team again made several moves to bolster the offence and defence, re-acquiring fan favourite Ryan Smyth from Los Angeles for [[Colin Fraser (ice hockey)|Colin Fraser]] and a seventh-round draft pick.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/news/oilers-re-acquire-ryan-smyth-from-kings/c-567391 | title=Oilers re-acquire Ryan Smyth from Kings}}</ref> The team also traded with the Anaheim Ducks to acquire [[Andy Sutton]] for [[Kurtis Foster]]. [[Sheldon Souray]], who played the entire 2010–11 season in the [[American Hockey League]] (AHL) with the [[Hershey Bears]], was bought out of the last year of his contract.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://nationalpost.com/sports/nhl/oilers-buy-out-veteran-sourays-contract/wcm/92f99684-5b21-4928-8e28-bb0e55672121/ | title=Oilers buy out veteran Souray's contract | newspaper=National Post | date=June 30, 2011 | last1=Matheson | first1=Jim}}</ref> These moves, coupled with the signings of [[Éric Bélanger|Eric Belanger]], [[Cam Barker]], [[Ben Eager]] and [[Darcy Hordichuk]], changed the complexion of the team, to add "grit and toughness". However, the Oilers were again unable to qualify for the playoffs for the sixth-straight season, as they finished 14th in the Western Conference.
On May 17, 2012, a month after the ending of the [[2011–12 NHL season|2011–12 season]], the Oilers announced they would not renew the contract of head coach Tom Renney.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/news/edmonton-oilers-part-ways-with-head-coach-tom-renney-after-two-losing-seasons/c-631944 | title=Edmonton Oilers part ways with head coach Tom Renney after two losing seasons}}</ref> The following month, Edmonton selected [[Nail Yakupov]] as the first overall pick at the [[2012 NHL entry draft]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/nhl/oilers-select-nail-yakupov-1st-overall-in-nhl-draft-1.1164890 |title=Oilers select Nail Yakupov 1st overall in NHL Draft |date=June 23, 2012 |agency=The Canadian Press |publisher=CBCSports.ca |access-date=May 25, 2018}}</ref> A week later, [[Ralph Krueger]] was named as the Oilers' new head coach on June 27, being promoted from his role as associate coach the season previous.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-name-ralph-krueger-11th-head-coach-in-franchise-history/c-636235 | title=Oilers name Ralph Krueger 11th head coach in franchise history}}</ref> Three days later, Edmonton announced they had agreed to terms with sought-after free agent defenceman [[Justin Schultz]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Oilers agree to terms with highly sought-after free agent, Justin Schultz |url=http://oilers.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=636627 |date=June 30, 2012|publisher=Edmonton Oilers}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/hockey/highly-sought-after-defenceman-justin-schultz-chooses-oilers/article4382932/ |title=Highly sought after defenceman Justin Schultz chooses Oilers |author=Johnston, Chris |date=July 1, 2012 |agency=The Canadian Press |work=The Globe and Mail |access-date=July 9, 2012}}</ref>
The [[2012–13 NHL season|2012–13 season]] start was delayed from its original date of October 11, 2012, due to a [[2012–13 NHL lockout|labour lock-out]] imposed by the NHL franchise owners after the expiration of the NHL's CBA. After a new labour agreement was reached between the owners and the [[National Hockey League Players' Association]] (NHLPA), training camps opened on January 13, 2013, and a 48-game season (reduced from 82 games) commenced on January 19. The Oilers played their first game of the shortened season a day later, on January 20.
On January 23, to ensure the health of the Edmonton Oilers in Edmonton and for the planned revitalization of [[downtown Edmonton]], the City of Edmonton council voted 10–3 to approval a deal that saw a new $480 million arena built in Edmonton's downtown core for the start of the 2016–17 season. [[Rogers Communications]] announced it had the naming rights to the new arena on December 3, 2013; the new 18,641-seat arena was called [[Rogers Place]].<ref name="RogersPlace" /><ref>{{cite news | url=https://nationalpost.com/sports/hockey/nhl/edmonton-city-council-approves-new-arena-deal/ | title=Edmonton city council approves new arena deal | newspaper=National Post | date=October 27, 2011 | last1=Kent | first1=Gordon}}</ref>
[[File:Andrew Ference - Edmonton Oilers.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Andrew Ference]] played with the Oilers from 2013 to 2016. He was named team captain in 2013.]]
After 41 games into the shortened season and with the Oilers mathematically eliminated from the playoffs for a seventh successive time, Edmonton terminated Steve Tambellini's contract as general manager, where he was replaced with former head coach Craig MacTavish.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-appoint-craig-mactavish-as-general-manager/c-665880 | title=Oilers appoint Craig MacTavish as general manager}}</ref> Following the end of the season, on June 8, MacTavish fired Ralph Krueger after just one season as head coach.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/ralph-krueger-relieved-of-duties-as-head-coach/c-673322 | title=Ralph Krueger relieved of duties as head coach}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/eye-on-hockey/22380706/oilers-coach-ralph-krueger-was-fired-over-skype |title=Oilers coach Ralph Krueger says he was fired over Skype |access-date=May 21, 2015 |archive-date=June 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150621032856/http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/eye-on-hockey/22380706/oilers-coach-ralph-krueger-was-fired-over-skype |url-status=dead}}</ref> Two days later, it was announced Krueger was to be replaced by former [[Toronto Marlies]] head coach [[Dallas Eakins]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://globalnews.ca/news/629189/edmonton-oilers-news-conference-monday-afternoon/ | title=Edmonton Oilers name Dallas Eakins new head coach}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/nhl/oilers-fire-steve-tambellini-name-craig-mactavish-new-gm-1.1328859|title=Oilers fire Steve Tambellini, name Craig MacTavish new GM|date=April 15, 2013|publisher=[[Canadian Broadcasting Corporation]]|access-date=May 25, 2018}}</ref> One of MacTavish's first player moves as Oilers' general manager came at the [[2013 NHL entry draft]], as Edmonton used their seventh overall selection to draft defenceman [[Darnell Nurse]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-select-darnell-nurse-seventh-overall-in-the-2013-nhl-draft/c-675801 | title=Oilers select Darnell Nurse seventh overall in the 2013 NHL Draft}}</ref> More moves came on July 5, during free agency, which saw MacTavish trade captain Shawn Horcoff to the Dallas Stars in exchange for [[Philip Larsen]]. MacTavish also signed Andrew Ference, [[Boyd Gordon]], [[Jason LaBarbera]], [[Will Acton]], [[Ryan Hamilton (ice hockey)|Ryan Hamilton]] and [[Jesse Joensuu]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/busy-free-agency-day-as-oilers-add-seven/c-676956 | title=Busy Free Agency Day as Oilers add seven}}</ref> Ference was later announced as the 14th captain in Oilers NHL franchise history on September 29.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/ference-named-captain/c-684686 | title=Ference named captain}}</ref> [[Aleš Hemský|Ales Hemsky]] and Ryan Smyth, who after the Horcoff trade became the last remaining members of the Oilers' 2006 Stanley Cup finalists still with the team, departed the Oilers franchise, as Hemsky was traded to the Ottawa Senators on March 5, 2014.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/blog-hemsky-reflects-on-trade-and-edmonton/c-26820 | title=BLOG: Hemsky reflects on trade and Edmonton}}</ref> Smyth (who had previously left the Oilers in 2007, but had returned in 2011) announced his retirement on April 11,<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/ryan-smyth-set-to-play-final-national-hockey-league-game/c-714061 | title=Ryan Smyth set to play final National Hockey League game}}</ref> playing his final NHL game on April 13, where he was ceremoniously named team captain.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/blog-ference-talks-about-giving-smyth-the-c/c-28300 | title=BLOG: Ference talks about giving Smyth the 'C'}}</ref>
On December 15, 2014, after 31 games of the [[2014–15 NHL season|2014–15 season]], MacTavish announced Dallas Eakins had been terminated as head coach. MacTavish assumed the role of interim coach while [[Todd Nelson (ice hockey)|Todd Nelson]] transitioned into the role for the remainder of the season. Nelson was previously serving as the head coach of the [[Oklahoma City Barons]], the Oilers' then-AHL affiliate.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/blog-dallas-eakins-relieved-of-duties/c-34859 | title=BLOG: Dallas Eakins Relieved of Duties}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=744131&navid=nhl:topheads|title=Nelson hopes to bring winning ways to Oilers|date=December 15, 2014|publisher=National Hockey League|access-date=December 15, 2014}}</ref> Three days later, the Oilers released a statement that their affiliation with the Barons would cease at the end of the season.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/statement-from-the-edmonton-oilers-oklahoma-city-barons-affiliation/c-744657 | title=Statement from the Edmonton Oilers – Oklahoma City Barons Affiliation}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.news9.com/story/27661845/okc-barons-to-cease-operations-at-end-of-current-season|title=OKC Barons To Cease Operations At End Of Current Season|date=December 18, 2014|publisher=news9.com|access-date=December 18, 2014}}</ref>
Following Edmonton's decision not to renew affiliation with the Barons, the Oilers relocated their AHL franchise from [[Oklahoma City]], [[Oklahoma]], to [[Bakersfield, California]]. This move was announced on January 29, 2015, as part of the AHL's new Pacific Division, which included the Oilers' affiliation in Bakersfield.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-join-ahl-in-announcing-pacific-division/c-750918 | title=Oilers join AHL in announcing Pacific Division}}</ref> The following month, on February 25, the team was given its new identity, the [[Bakersfield Condors (AHL)|Bakersfield Condors]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/blog-bakersfield-to-remain-as-condors/c-37412 | title=BLOG: Bakersfield to remain as Condors}}</ref> On April 2, the Condors released their new logo.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/blog-condors-unveil-new-logo/c-38556 | title=BLOG: Condors unveil new logo}}</ref> Off-season moves failed to help the Oilers as they finished behind Arizona in the NHL during [[2014–15 NHL season|2014–15]]. It was also easily their worst season as an NHL team.
===McDavid–Draisaitl era (2015–present)===
[[File:Connor McDavid 07042015.jpg|left|thumb|upright|The Oilers drafted [[Connor McDavid]] first overall in the [[2015 NHL entry draft|2015]] draft. He was named the Oilers' 15th team captain in 2016 and the youngest in NHL history.]]
The Oilers won the 2015 draft lottery on April 18, moving them from the third-overall pick to first, marking their fourth lottery win in six seasons.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.tsn.ca/oilers-win-nhl-draft-lottery-1.260753 | title=Oilers win NHL Draft lottery – TSN.ca | date=April 18, 2015}}</ref> The Oilers selected [[Connor McDavid]] first overall in the [[2015 NHL entry draft]] held in Sunrise, Florida, on June 26.
On April 24, Craig MacTavish was removed from his position as general manager and was replaced by former Boston Bruins general manager [[Peter Chiarelli (ice hockey)|Peter Chiarelli]], who was also appointed president of hockey operations as part of other related changes.<ref name="Chiarelli Hiring">{{cite web|title=Oilers Entertainment Group Announces Changes to Senior Management|url=http://oilers.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=765014|publisher=NHL Enterprises, L.P.|website=EdmontonOilers.com|access-date=April 24, 2015}}</ref> In Chiarelli's first transactions as Oilers general manager, he traded a first and a second-round pick during the first day of the [[2015 NHL entry draft]] to the New York Islanders, in exchange for defenceman [[Griffin Reinhart]]. Chiarelli again made trades the following day and traded another second-, a third- and a seventh-round draft pick to the New York Rangers, to acquire goaltender [[Cam Talbot]] and the Rangers' seventh-round draft pick.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/news/oilers-get-goalie-talbot-from-rangers-for-three-picks/c-772576 | title=Oilers get goalie Talbot from Rangers for three picks}}</ref> On May 19, [[Todd McLellan]] was named the new head coach of the Oilers.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-name-todd-mclellan-head-coach/c-768169 | title=Oilers Name Todd McLellan Head Coach}}</ref> He and his former team, the San Jose Sharks, mutually agreed to part ways on April 20 after the Sharks failed to qualify for the [[2015 Stanley Cup playoffs|2015 playoffs]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/news/sharks-mclellan-mutually-agree-to-part-ways/c-764211 | title=Sharks, McLellan mutually agree to part ways}}</ref> More coaching changes came on June 4 when [[Keith Acton]] and [[Craig Ramsay]] were relieved of their duties.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-announce-changes-to-coaching-staff/c-40101 | title=Oilers announce changes to coaching staff}}</ref>
In addition to these coaching changes, the Oilers also made some changes to their scouting staff on June 22, which saw both head amateur and professional scouts Stu MacGregor and Morey Gare relieved of their duties. Amateur scouts Brad Davis and Kent Hawley, and professional scouts Dave Semenko and [[Billy Moores]], who served as director of coaching and special projects, were also relieved of their duties.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-announce-changes-to-hockey-operations-and-scouting-staff/c-771656 | title=Oilers Announce Changes to Hockey Operations and Scouting Staff}}</ref> Further changes came on October 7, when the Oilers elected to begin the [[2014–15 NHL season|2015–16 season]] without a team captain; this marked the first time they had done so since entering the NHL, in 1979. Taylor Hall, Jordan Eberle, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Andrew Ference, who had served as team captain the previous two seasons, were all named as alternate captains.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/news/oilers-name-four-alternate-captains-for-2015-16-season/c-782173 | title=Oilers name four alternate captains for 2015–16 season}}</ref>
On February 27, 2016, mathematically eliminated from playoff contention, the Oilers traded defenceman Justin Schultz to the [[Pittsburgh Penguins]], in exchange for a third-round pick in the [[2016 NHL entry draft]]. Before his trade, Schultz endured the worst season of his professional career, with just 10 points in 45 games.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/oilers-trade-justin-schultz-to-penguins/c-279200068|title=Penguins acquire defenseman Schultz from Oilers|last=Cosby|first=Wes|publisher=National Hockey League|date=February 27, 2016|access-date=March 19, 2019}}</ref>
After the 2015–16 season, the Oilers prepared to move from [[Rexall Place]], their home since 1974, to newly built Rogers Place. On April 6, in their final home game at Rexall, the Oilers defeated the Vancouver Canucks 6–2.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/news/oilers-defeat-canucks-close-rexall-place/c-280167346 | title=Oilers exit Rexall Place with win against Canucks}}</ref> Before the game, the Oilers held a ceremony honouring the history of the arena. Oilers' alumni, including Mark Messier and Wayne Gretzky, skated around the rink one more time.
In a one-for-one trade on June 29, Edmonton dealt all-star winger Taylor Hall to the [[New Jersey Devils]], in exchange for defenceman [[Adam Larsson]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/news/oilers-trade-taylor-hall-to-devils-for-adam-larsson/c-281082608 | title=Oilers trade Hall to Devils for Larsson}}</ref> Following the Hall trade, Chiarelli also pursued impending free agent [[Milan Lucic]], signing him to a seven-year contract, in a bid to make the playoffs for the first time since 2006. Chiarelli and Lucic were already familiar with each other, during their time together with the Boston Bruins.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/news/milan-lucic-signs-with-edmonton-oilers/c-281092610 | title=Milan Lucic signs seven-year contract with Oilers}}</ref> On October 5, 19-year-old Connor McDavid was named the 15th captain of the Oilers; McDavid was the youngest team captain in NHL history, having broken the record previously held by Colorado Avalanche captain [[Gabriel Landeskog]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/edmonton-oilers-name-connor-mcdavid-captain/c-282396994 | title=Edmonton Oilers name Connor McDavid Captain | date=October 5, 2016}}</ref> The Oilers made further moves to their roster a few days later, when they traded Nail Yakupov to the [[St. Louis Blues]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/news/nail-yakupov-traded-to-blues/c-282481580 | title=Nail Yakupov traded to Blues by Oilers}}</ref> and signed free-agent defenceman [[Kris Russell]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-sign-defenceman-kris-russell/c-282484920 | title=Oilers sign defenceman Kris Russell | date=October 8, 2016}}</ref>
The [[2016–17 NHL season|2016–17 season]] was a great success for the team. After defeating the Los Angeles Kings 2–1 on March 28, 2017, the Oilers qualified for the [[2017 Stanley Cup playoffs]], ending their 11-year drought. The Oilers finished with a 47–26–9 record, thanks largely to a 100-point season from McDavid and breakout performances from fellow forwards [[Leon Draisaitl]] and [[Patrick Maroon]], whilst backstopped with strong play from netminder Cam Talbot. McDavid led the entire league with 70 assists and 100 points, earning himself both the [[Art Ross Trophy]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/news/connor-mcdavid-art-ross-trophy-winner/c-288632376 | title=Connor McDavid of Oilers wins Art Ross Trophy}}</ref> and [[Hart Memorial Trophy]], as his team's [[most valuable player]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/news/connor-mcdavid-wins-hart-trophy-mvp/c-290050176 | title=Connor McDavid of Oilers wins Hart Trophy as NHL MVP}}</ref> Talbot also set a new franchise record, with a total of 42 games won by a goaltender, surpassing the 40 games won by Grant Fuhr, during the 1987–88 season.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/game-story-oilers-4-sharks-2/c-288510690 | title=GAME STORY: Oilers 4, Sharks 2 | date=April 7, 2017}}</ref>
[[File:Edmonton Oilers 2017 Playoff Scene (34311884396).jpg|thumb|[[Rogers Place]] during the [[2017 Stanley Cup playoffs]]. The Oilers moved into Rogers Place before the start of the 2016–17 season.]]
In the first round of the playoffs, the Oilers eliminated the San Jose Sharks, following a 3–1 win in game 6, to secure their first playoff series win since 2006. Their playoff run was stopped on May 10, losing to the Anaheim Ducks in game 7 with a 2–1 loss, ending the second-round series.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.cbc.ca/m/sports/hockey/nhl/edmonton-oilers-san-jose-sharks-nhl-1.4081673|title=Oilers knock off Sharks, set up 2nd round date with Ducks|last=Pollak|first=David|date=April 23, 2017|publisher=[[Canadian Broadcasting Corporation]]|access-date=May 12, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/hockey/nhl/edmonton-oilers/live-edmonton-oilers-vs-anaheim-ducks-game-7|title=Oilers fall short in Game 7, bow out to Ducks|work=Edmonton Journal|first=Robert|last=Tychkowski|date=May 10, 2017|access-date=May 12, 2017}}{{cite web|url=https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/hockey/nhl/cult-of-hockey/referees-ruin-the-game-as-anaheim-ducks-beat-oilers-4-3-in-overtime|title=Referees ruin the game as Ducks beat Oilers 4–3 in overtime|work=Edmonton Journal|first=David|last=Staples|date=May 4, 2017|access-date=May 2, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gohabsgo.com/2017/05/06/video-ducks-score-controversial-goal-to-send-game-/|title=VIDEO: Ducks Score Controversial Goal To Send Game Into OT|publisher=Go Habs Go!|date=May 6, 2017|access-date=May 12, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170510142742/http://www.gohabsgo.com/2017/05/06/video-ducks-score-controversial-goal-to-send-game-/|archive-date=May 10, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>
In the 2017 off-season, the Oilers traded Jordan Eberle to the New York Islanders, in exchange for forward [[Ryan Strome]], to gain salary relief. The Oilers signed both McDavid and Draisaitl to 8-year contracts worth $100 million and $68 million, carrying annual cap hits of $12.5 million and $8.5 million, respectively. The Oilers had high expectations coming into the [[2017–18 NHL season|2017–18 season]], as many expected to make progress off of their surprising year in 2016–17. However, the Oilers regressed, posting a 36–40–6 record and missing the playoffs for the 11th time in 12 seasons.
On January 22, 2019, the Oilers terminated Chiarelli's employment as president and general manager. [[Keith Gretzky]] was appointed interim general manager the following day.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Spector |first1=Mark |title=Oilers fire GM, president of hockey operations Peter Chiarelli |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/oilers-fire-gm-president-hockey-operations-peter-chiarelli/ |website=Sportsnet.ca |access-date=January 23, 2019}}</ref> The Oilers again missed the playoffs, posting a 35–38–9 record and having only qualified for the playoffs once in 13 seasons.
====After COVID and consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances (2020–present)====
On May 7, 2019, the Oilers announced the appointment of [[Ken Holland]] as general manager.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nhl/2019/05/07/edmonton-names-ken-holland-as-gm-president-of-hockey-ops/39456011/ | title=Edmonton names Ken Holland as GM, president of hockey ops | website=[[USA Today]]}}</ref> Three weeks later, the Oilers named [[Dave Tippett]] as the team's new head coach, on May 28.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/edmonton-oilers-name-dave-tippett-head-coach/|title=Edmonton Oilers name Dave Tippett head coach|website=Sportsnet.ca|publisher=Rogers Digital Media|access-date=August 2, 2019|date=May 29, 2019|last=Spector|first=Mark}}</ref> In the [[2019–20 NHL season|2019–20 season]], the Oilers showed some hope; the team had a record of 37–25–9 on March 12, 2020, when the [[COVID-19 pandemic in Alberta|COVID-19 pandemic]] suspended the season. Edmonton was chosen as one of the two host cities of the [[2020 Stanley Cup playoffs]] and qualified for the playoffs as the fifth seed in the Western Conference; however, the team was upset by the Chicago Blackhawks in four games in the preliminary round.
In the [[2020–21 NHL season|2020–21 season]], the Oilers finished second in the [[North Division (NHL)|North Division]] with a 35–19–2 record, largely due to a 105-point season from Connor McDavid, only the ninth player to reach the mark in 53 games. Additionally, Leon Draisaitl had an excellent season, as the runner-up in NHL league scoring, with 84 points. McDavid's 105-point season earned him a unanimous second [[Hart Trophy]] win as the most valuable player in the NHL, becoming the second unanimous winner in league history (along with Wayne Gretzky in 1981–82).<ref>{{cite web|title=McDavid of Oilers wins Hart Trophy as NHL most valuable player|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/edmonton-oilers-connor-mcdavid-wins-hart-trophy-nhl-mvp-award/c-325520532|access-date=August 6, 2021|website=NHL.com}}</ref> The Oilers faced the third-place team in the North Division, the [[Winnipeg Jets]], in the first round of the playoffs. The Oilers were swept in four games by the Jets, and three of the Oilers' losses came in overtime, including the final game, which went to triple overtime. [[Darnell Nurse]] logged 62 minutes and 7 seconds of ice time in the final game, third-most in NHL history.<ref>{{cite web|title=Oilers' Darnell Nurse: Over an hour ice time in loss|url=https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/hockey/news/oilers-darnell-nurse-over-an-hour-ice-time-in-loss/|access-date=August 6, 2021|website=CBSSports.com|date=May 25, 2021}}</ref>
[[File:Rogers Place ahead of Oilers v Kings Game 7.jpg|thumb|Fans outside [[Rogers Place]] during the first round of the [[2022 Stanley Cup playoffs]].]]
In the [[2021–22 NHL season|2021–22 season]], the Oilers finished with a 49–27–6 record, their first 40-win season since 2017. McDavid had a career-high 123 points, as the Oilers clinched second place in the Pacific Division. The Oilers faced the [[Los Angeles Kings]] in the first round of the [[2022 Stanley Cup playoffs]]. After struggling at first, the Oilers managed to cling on and win an extremely close series with a [[shutout]] in game 7 to advance to the second round.<ref>{{cite web |title=Oilers vs Kings |url=https://www.nhl.com/stanley-cup-playoffs/2022/oilers-vs-kings-series-h |access-date=May 25, 2022 |website=NHL.com}}</ref> There, they faced their provincial rival, the [[Calgary Flames]] for the first time since 1991. The series was a tight battle, leading to the Oilers triumphing over the Flames in five games. The series was a part of the iconic [[Battle of Alberta]], which is known for its excessive amount of high-scoring games and brutality.<ref>{{cite web |title=Flames vs Oilers |url=https://www.nhl.com/stanley-cup-playoffs/2022/flames-vs-oilers-series-l |access-date=May 25, 2022 |website=NHL.com}}</ref> The Oilers advanced to the conference finals for the first time since [[2006 Stanley Cup playoffs#(6) Mighty Ducks of Anaheim vs. (8) Edmonton Oilers|2006]] where they were swept in four games by the eventual Stanley Cup champion [[Colorado Avalanche]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Clipperton |first=Joshua |date=June 6, 2022 |title=Oilers eliminated in OT as Avalanche complete sweep to reach Stanley Cup final |page=1 |work=CBC |url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/nhl/edmontoin-oilers-colorado-avalanche-game-4-nhl-playoffs-recap-1.6479326 |access-date=June 12, 2022}}</ref>
In the [[2022–23 NHL season|2022–23 season]], the Oilers had three players, Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins each reach the 100-point milestone. This milestone from the trio marks the first NHL season since 1995–96, when one team had three players score 100 points.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Oilers become first team since 1995–96 to have 3 100-point scorers |url=https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/nhl-oilers-become-first-team-since-1995-96-to-have-3-100-point-scorers-134511865.html |access-date=April 6, 2023 |website=Yahoo Sports |date=April 6, 2023}}</ref> The Oilers finished 50–23–9 with their first 50-win season since the 1986–87 season, recording 109 points and clinched the second seed in the Pacific Division, earning an opening round playoff matchup with the Los Angeles Kings for the second consecutive year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2023 Stanley Cup Playoff Preview: Oilers vs. Kings |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/2023-stanley-cup-playoff-preview-oilers-vs-kings/ |access-date=April 20, 2023 |website=Sportsnet.ca}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Draisaitl's late goal pushes Oilers past Kings and into second in Pacific Division |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/draisaitls-late-goal-pushes-oilers-past-kings-and-into-second-in-pacific-division/ |access-date=April 20, 2023 |website=Sportsnet.ca}}</ref> Connor McDavid had a career-high scoring 153 points, recording the highest single season point total in the salary cap era.<ref>{{Cite web |title=McDavid, Oilers set multiple high marks with historic offensive season |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/mcdavid-oilers-set-multiple-high-marks-with-historic-offensive-season/ |access-date=April 20, 2023 |website=Sportsnet.ca}}</ref> After defeating the Kings in six games, they were eliminated in the second round by the eventual Stanley Cup champion [[Vegas Golden Knights]], also in six games.
In the [[2023–24 NHL season|2023–24 season]], the Oilers started with a disappointing 3–9–1 record, which led to the dismissals of head coach [[Jay Woodcroft]] and assistant coach [[Dave Manson]] on November 12, 2023. But by the end of the season, the Oilers finished with a 49–27–6 record, being 46–18–5 under new head coach [[Kris Knoblauch]] and clinched the second seed in the Pacific Division, earning an opening round playoff matchup with the Los Angeles Kings for the third consecutive year. During the season, the Oilers went on a 16-game win streak, which began on December 21, 2023, against the New Jersey Devils and ended on February 6, 2024, against the Vegas Golden Knights. [[Zach Hyman]] scored a personal high 54 goals to finish as the team leader in goals scored and Connor McDavid became the fourth player since [[1990–91 NHL season|1990–91]] to record 100 assists in a single NHL season, joining former Oilers captain Wayne Gretzky and Hockey Hall of Famers, [[Mario Lemieux]] and [[Bobby Orr]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=McDavid 4th NHL player to reach 100-assist milestone, joining Gretzky, Lemieux, Orr |url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/nhl/connor-mcdavid-100-assist-milestone-oilers-nhl-1.7175075 |access-date=April 16, 2024 |website=CBC.ca}}</ref> After beating the Los Angeles Kings for the third consecutive year in the first round, the Vancouver Canucks in the second round, and the Dallas Stars in the conference finals, the Oilers won their eighth [[Clarence S. Campbell Bowl]] and made it to the [[Stanley Cup Final]] for the first time since [[2006 Stanley Cup Final|2006]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Oilers top Stars 2–1 for West title, will play Florida in the Stanley Cup Final |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/oilers-top-stars-2-1-024218531.html |access-date=June 17, 2024 |website=Yahoo Sports |date=June 3, 2024}}</ref> They faced the [[Florida Panthers]] losing in seven games after trailing 3–0 in the [[2024 Stanley Cup Final|Stanley Cup Final]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Clipperton |first=Joshua |date=June 24, 2024 |title=Oilers fall short of history as Panthers win Game 7 to capture 1st Stanley Cup title |url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/nhl/stanley-cup-final-oilers-panthers-game-7-recap-1.7245053 |work=CBC |access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref> Connor McDavid, however, won the [[Conn Smythe Trophy]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/connor-mcdavid-wins-conn-smythe-trophy-for-oilers-as-playoff-mvp|title=McDavid caps historic run with Conn Smythe despite Oilers loss in Game 7|website=nhl.com|last=Van Diest|first=Derek|date=June 25, 2024|access-date=June 10, 2025}}</ref>
On June 27, 2024, three days after the Oilers' loss in the Final, and with his contract expiring, the Oilers and general manager Holland announced that they had mutually decided to part ways. CEO of hockey operations [[Jeff Jackson (ice hockey, born 1965)|Jeff Jackson]] subsequently assumed the role of interim general manager.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/ken-holland-will-not-return-as-oilers-general-manager |title=Holland will not return as Oilers general manager; contract expires July 1 |website=NHL.com |date=June 27, 2024 |access-date=June 27, 2024}}</ref> On July 24, the Oilers hired former [[Chicago Blackhawks]] general manager [[Stan Bowman]] as their new general manager, three weeks after being reinstated from his suspension relating to the [[2009–10 Chicago Blackhawks season#Sexual abuse scandal|Blackhawks sexual abuse scandal]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/stan-bowman-hired-as-edmonton-gm-replaces-ken-holland |title=Stan Bowman hired as Oilers general manager, replaces Holland |website=NHL.com |date=July 24, 2024 |access-date=July 24, 2024}}</ref>
==Team information==
===Jerseys===
The original 1972 logo was designed by James Harvey, a graphic designer working for an Albertan public relations firm called Francis, Williams, Johnson and Payne LTD.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=BQ1lAAAAIBAJ&sjid=u4INAAAAIBAJ&pg=1033,432365|title=Edmonton Journal – Google News Archive Search|website=news.google.com|accessdate=March 11, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LE1hMUqtnuM|title=The Story Behind an Oilers Mystery 50 Years In The Making|date=February 27, 2023 |accessdate=March 11, 2023|via=www.youtube.com}}</ref> The design featured the now-traditional colours of blue and orange, but reversed from their more familiar appearance in later seasons, orange being the dominant colour and blue used for the trimming. For the first few games of the 1972 season, player names were not displayed on the uniform; rather the word "ALBERTA" was written in that space. About halfway through the season, though, the player names made their appearance, since the Oilers had played exclusively in Edmonton.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.whauniforms.com/Oilers1.html |title=Alberta Oilers |publisher=WHA uniforms.com |access-date=November 30, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110107011241/http://whauniforms.com/Oilers1.html |archive-date=January 7, 2011}}</ref> These jerseys also featured the player numbers high on the shoulders, rather than on the upper sleeve as is standard.
In the [[1974–75 WHA season|1974–75 season]], the jersey was changed to a blue base with orange trim. The logo that appeared on programs and promotional material remained the same. However, the logo that appeared on the home jersey had a white oil drop, on a dark orange field, with the team name written in deep blue. The away jersey featured an orange-printed logo with a blue oil drop.
When the team joined the NHL in 1979, the alternate logos were discarded, giving the jersey its most famous form. However, the logo appeared slightly differently on a few vintages of the jersey. Minor changes were also made to the numbering, lettering, and collar in their first few NHL campaigns. From 1982 to 1989, [[Nike, Inc.|Nike]] provided the Oilers' sweaters.
[[File:Logo Edmonton Oilers Alternate.svg|left|thumb|upright|The Oilers' former primary logo was used in some capacity from 1996 to 2012.]]
The essential design remained untouched until 1996 when the team colours were changed to midnight blue and copper with red trim. Other changes made to the jersey at that point were the removal of the shoulder bar and cuffs from the away jersey and the addition of the "Rigger" alternate logo to the jersey's shoulders. A year later, the shoulder bars were removed from the home jersey as well and the Oilers' sweater design then remained stable until 2007.
In 2001, the Oilers introduced their first alternate [[third jersey|third sweater]]. Designed by then-minority owner [[Todd McFarlane]] and his production studio, the new uniforms were a radical departure from previous Oilers designs. The original Oilers logo was completely absent, along with copper and red; midnight blue was complemented with two shades of silver/grey and the primary logo was a flying set of gears with an oil drop on top. Elements of the logo paid tribute to the five Stanley Cup titles and 10 team captains to that point. A silver shield bearing "OILERS" above a variation of the oil-drop gear adorned the shoulders.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily/Issues/2001/10/29/Franchises/Oilers-Debut-New-Third-Jersey-Developed-By-Mcfarlane | title=Oilers Debut New Third Jersey Developed by McFarlane | date=October 29, 2001}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Edmonton Oilers' third jersey is a hit |url=https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/1812841539855 |website=CBC.ca |access-date=May 24, 2025}}</ref> The jersey's sleeve numbers are located inside the white sleeve stripe.
During the [[2003 Heritage Classic]], the Oilers donned their 1980s white uniform, albeit paired with the then-current navy pants.
In 2007, with the NHL's switch to [[NHL uniform#Since 2007: Reebok Edge|Reebok Edge]] jerseys, the Oilers kept their team colours but changed the style of their jerseys. Most notable about the Edge jerseys were the removal of the waistline stripes in favour of vertical piping and the sleeve stripes only appearing on the inside of the elbow panels. The "Rigger" was retired, along with the McFarlane third jersey and its associated logos. In 2008, the Oilers introduced a new alternate jersey that closely resembled the blue-and-orange away jersey of the dynasty era. For the [[2009–10 NHL season|2009–10 season]], this jersey became the Oilers' main home jersey as blue and orange became the primary team colours once again. The old midnight blue-and-copper jersey became their alternate. On June 24, 2011, the Oilers presented their new white road jerseys at the 2011 NHL entry draft, when they selected Ryan Nugent-Hopkins first overall.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-unveil-new-away-jersey-at-11-nhl-entry-draft/c-567033 | title=Oilers Unveil New Away Jersey at '11 NHL entry draft}}</ref> The midnight blue jersey remained as the third jersey before being dropped altogether in 2012.
For the 2015–16 season, the team introduced a new alternate jersey inspired by their original WHA design, with orange as a primary colour. This design immediately became popular with the fanbase and Oilers home games were soon flooded with fans wearing the orange jerseys, calling it the "Surge of Orange" in response to the Calgary Flames' "C of Red" and Winnipeg Jets' "Whiteout" traditions.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/hockey/nhl/edmonton-oilers/oilers-hope-orange-surge-becomes-new-edmonton-tradition |title=Oilers hope 'Orange Surge' becomes new Edmonton tradition |publisher=Edmonton Journal |access-date=July 7, 2022}}</ref><ref name=EDMOrange>{{cite web|url=https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nhl/news/orange-surge-explained-oilers-fans-tradition/b6hkvhgtkvnm17jdr5e9r6ba |title=Orange Surge explained: How Oilers fans made wearing the same color a home game tradition |date=June 4, 2022 |publisher=The Sporting News |access-date=July 7, 2022}}</ref> The Oilers also wore the alternate orange jerseys in the [[2016 Heritage Classic]].
With the switch to [[Adidas]] jerseys in the 2017–18 season, the orange jersey became the Oilers' home design, but with a few alterations: the 1980s-era template was retained while midnight blue returned as an accent colour.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://globalnews.ca/news/3544046/officially-orange-edmonton-oilers-unveil-new-home-jerseys/|title=Officially orange! Edmonton Oilers unveil new home jerseys|work=Global News Edmonton|access-date=June 25, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Kennedy|first1=Ryan|title=The Good, the Bad and the Vegas: A look at the new NHL jerseys|url=http://www.thehockeynews.com/news/article/the-good-the-bad-and-the-vegas-a-look-at-the-new-nhl-jerseys|website=The Hockey News|access-date=October 6, 2017|date=June 21, 2017}}</ref>
To commemorate the franchise's 40th anniversary in the NHL, the Oilers wore their classic 1980s blue jerseys for four home games in 2018–19 against original [[Smythe Division]] rivals Los Angeles Kings, Calgary Flames, Winnipeg Jets and Vancouver Canucks.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/oilers-celebrate-40th-anniversary-with-blue-jerseys/c-299942208 |title=Oilers bring back blue jerseys to celebrate 40th anniversary |publisher=NHL.com |access-date=September 13, 2019}}</ref> Before the 2019–20 season, the Oilers unveiled a new midnight blue alternate jersey with minimal striping and lack of white elements.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/release-oilers-announce-2019-20-alternate-jersey/c-309084752 |title=RELEASE: Oilers announce 2019–20 Alternate Jersey |publisher=Edmonton Oilers |access-date=September 13, 2019}}</ref> The Oilers wore their midnight blue alternates at home playoff games during the [[2021 Stanley Cup playoffs|2021]] and [[2022 Stanley Cup playoffs|2022]] Stanley Cup playoffs.<ref name=EDMOrange/>
In the 2020–21 season, the Oilers released a "Reverse Retro" alternate uniform, reviving the 1980s white jersey but with the orange and blue switching places, save for the team's crest.<ref>{{cite news|title=Reverse Retro alternate jerseys for all 31 teams unveiled by NHL, adidas|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/nhl-reveals-adidas-reverse-retro-jerseys/c-319633384|publisher=National Hockey League|date=December 1, 2020|access-date=December 5, 2020}}</ref>
Beginning with the 2022–23 season, the Oilers brought back the 1980s blue and white jerseys, while retaining the alternate midnight blue jerseys.<ref name="Jerseys"/> The Oilers also unveiled a second "Reverse Retro" uniform during the season, using the 2001–2007 alternate but with orange replacing silver in the trim, as well as making the oil drop orange to match the drop in the standard logo.<ref>{{cite news|title=NHL Reverse Retro jerseys for all 32 teams unveiled by adidas|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/2022-adidas-nhl-reverse-retro-jerseys-reveal/c-336511528|website=NHL.com|date=October 20, 2022|access-date=October 20, 2022}}</ref>
For the team's appearance in the [[2023 Heritage Classic]], the Oilers wore specially designed uniforms. The blue-based design featured an enlarged oil drop surrounding a blue number, the full team name in blue letters at the bottom in a white ribbon, and orange and cream stripes. The back of the uniform featured cream letters with orange accents. Brown pants and gloves were worn to evoke hockey equipment of the early 20th century. The design was inspired by [[Canada men's national ice hockey team|Team Canada]]'s [[ice hockey at the 1952 Winter Olympics|1952 Winter Olympics]] gold medal-winning team represented by the [[Edmonton Mercurys]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/release-nhl-adidas-unveil-heritage-classic-uniforms|title=RELEASE: NHL, Adidas unveil Heritage Classic uniforms|date=September 26, 2023 |publisher=Edmonton Oilers|access-date=September 26, 2023}}</ref>
===Anthem singer===
From 1981 to 2011, [[Paul Lorieau]] was the Oilers anthem singer. Since 2013, the Oilers' anthem singer has been Robert Clark, an opera singer from Sherwood Park. When the Oilers compete in the playoffs and the Stanley Cup Final, Clark has sung the anthems from within the crowd.<ref>{{cite web |title=The man behind the mic |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/the-man-behind-the-mic-289319518 |access-date=May 7, 2017 |website=NHL.com |date=May 7, 2017}}</ref> Before singing the anthems, public address announcer Al Stafford introduces him as "The singing voice of your Edmonton Oilers".
===Mascot===
[[File:Hunter 2017-09-23.jpg|thumb|upright|Hunter, the Oilers' team mascot.]]
The Oilers mascot is a [[Canada lynx|Canadian lynx]] named Hunter who was unveiled on September 26, 2016. The choice of the Canadian lynx was because their largest place of habitat, in terms of population, is Alberta. It was also because it was the largest vote overall. The name gives tribute to the original Oilers owner, [[Bill Hunter (ice hockey)|William "Wild Bill" Hunter]]. Hunter wears the number 72 on his jersey, referencing the year the Oilers were established, which was in 1972.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-launch-official-mascot/c-282135876|title=Oilers launch official mascot|publisher=National Hockey League|date=September 25, 2016|access-date=May 5, 2017}}</ref> Hunter has a portable drum, in which he uses to entertain the crowds and make them chant "Let's Go Oilers!", along with a rhythmic beat.
===Oilers Octane===
[[File:Oilers Cheerleaders (7618790504).jpg|thumb|Oilers Cheerleaders, 2012]]
The '''Oilers Octane''' was the cheerleading team for the Edmonton Oilers. The team was the first cheer squad for a Canadian NHL franchise.<ref>{{cite news |title=Oilers debut new cheer team |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/oilers-debut-new-cheer-team-1.925768 |access-date=November 29, 2021 |publisher=CBC News |date=December 14, 2010}}</ref> The debut of the cheer-leading team received a mixed reaction from the Edmonton community, including petitions to keep cheerleading out of the sport of hockey in Canada.<ref name="debut">{{cite web |url=http://sports.ca.msn.com/other/photos/top-cheerleaders-raise-a-cheer?page=1 |date=November 24, 2011 |access-date=August 13, 2013 |title=Top cheerleaders: Raise a cheer! Oilers Octane |work=Fox Sports |author=Ian Harrison |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111220023936/http://sports.ca.msn.com/other/photos/top-cheerleaders-raise-a-cheer?page=1 |archive-date=December 20, 2011 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
The Octane performed for the first time on December 14, 2010, at a home game against the [[Toronto Maple Leafs]].<ref name="debut"/> The first team had 19 cheerleaders, women aged 18 to 29, dressed in uniforms that resembled the original Edmonton Oilers jerseys, albeit with skirts and [[knee-high boots]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com/sports/hockey/2010/12/15/edmonton_oilers_introduce_cheerleaders.html |date=December 15, 2010 |access-date=August 13, 2013 |title=Edmonton Oilers introduce cheerleaders |work=[[Toronto Star]]}}</ref>
In August 2016 the Oilers Entertainment Group (OEG), which owns the Oilers, announced it was discontinuing the Octane, saying the franchise was "looking for a new direction related to the fan experience" as the team prepared to move from [[Rexall Place]] to [[Rogers Place]] for the [[2016–17 NHL season|2016–17 season]].<ref name="disband">{{cite news|title=Edmonton Oilers disband Octane cheerleading team|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/edmonton-oilers-disband-octane-cheerleading-team-1.3715608 |access-date=November 29, 2021 |publisher=CBC News |date=August 10, 2016}}</ref> The Group also announced auditions for a newly formed, co-ed group of "brand ambassadors" named the Oilers Orange and Blue Ice Crew for the upcoming season.<ref name="Octane2016">{{cite news|last1=Woollven|first1=Mark|title=Say 'goodbye' to the Oilers Octane cheer team|url=http://www.inews880.com/2016/08/09/say-goodbye-to-the-oilers-octane-cheer-team/| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160815114942/http://www.inews880.com/2016/08/09/say-goodbye-to-the-oilers-octane-cheer-team/|archive-date=August 15, 2016 |access-date=November 29, 2021| publisher=iNews880|date=August 9, 2016}}</ref>
===Rivalries===
The Oilers have two well-known rivalries in the NHL, which are against the [[Calgary Flames]] and [[Los Angeles Kings]].
====Calgary Flames====
{{main|Battle of Alberta (NHL)}}
The Oilers' rivalry with the Flames, also dubbed the [[Battle of Alberta (NHL)|Battle of Alberta]], stems from several playoff matchups between the two franchises during the 1980s, which coincidentally was the dynasty era of the Oilers; Edmonton usually won these matchups. However, the Flames did defeat the Oilers in the 1986 division round.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shilton |first=Kristen |title=The wild past and furious present of the Battle of Alberta |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/33934328/guide-battle-alberta-calgary-flames-edmonton-oilers |access-date=January 24, 2025 |website=ESPN.com |date=May 18, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Spector |first=Mark |title=The Battle of Alberta: The Historic Rivalry Between the Edmonton Oilers and the Calgary Flames |date=2015 |publisher=McClelland & Stewart |isbn=9780771078064}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Lewis-McDougall |first=Avry |title=Battle of Alberta: All-Time and Active Leaders in the Historic Flames and Oilers Rivalry |url=https://thehockeynews.com/news/the-battle-of-alberta-all-time-and-active-leaders-in-the-historic-flames-and-oilers-rivalry |access-date=January 24, 2025 |website=The Hockey News |date=February 24, 2024}}</ref>
====Los Angeles Kings====
{{main|Kings–Oilers rivalry}}
The Oilers had a [[Kings–Oilers rivalry|vicious rivalry]] with the Kings from the early 1980s to the early 1990s, which stemmed from numerous playoff duels, though the rivalry saw new life in the early 2020s.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Knoll |first=Andrew |title=Kings' playoff rivalry with the Oilers is now a trilogy |url=https://www.dailynews.com/2024/04/19/kings-playoff-rivalry-with-the-oilers-is-now-a-trilogy/ |access-date=January 24, 2025 |website=Daily News |date=April 19, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Swane |first=Brian |title=Revisiting the Oilers & Kings' Storied Playoff History - The Hockey Writers Oilers History Latest News, Analysis & More |url=https://thehockeywriters.com/oilers-kings-revisiting-storied-playoff-history/ |access-date=January 24, 2025 |website=The Hockey Writers |date=April 17, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Lewis-McDougall |first=Avry |title='It's Built Into a Rivalry for Sure': Oilers and Kings Amp Up the Action With Playoffs Looming |url=https://thehockeynews.com/news/news/its-built-into-a-rivalry-for-sure-oilers-and-kings-amp-up-the-action-with-playoffs-looming |access-date=January 24, 2025 |website=The Hockey News |date=March 30, 2024}}</ref> The rivalry notably included the [[Wayne Gretzky]] and [[Marty McSorley]] trade in which both players were traded from Edmonton to Los Angeles.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Baxter |first=Kevin |title=Why Kings vs. Oilers is one of the NHL's truly great rivalries |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/hockey/kings/story/2024-04-22/kings-edmonton-oilers-great-nhl-rivalry |access-date=January 24, 2025 |website=Los Angeles Times |date=April 22, 2024}}</ref>
==Season-by-season record==
''This is a partial list of the last five seasons completed by the Oilers. For the full season-by-season history, see [[List of Edmonton Oilers seasons]]''
'''''Note:''' GP = Games played, W = Wins, L = Losses, T = Ties, OTL = Overtime Losses/Shootout Losses, Pts = Points, GF = Goals for, GA = Goals against, PIM = Penalties in minutes''
{| class="wikitable"
|- style="font-weight:bold; background:#ddd;"
|Season || GP || W || L || OTL || Pts || GF || GA || Finish || Playoffs
|-
| [[2020–21 NHL season|2020–21]] || 56 || 35 || 19 || 2 || 72 || 183 || 154 || 2nd, North || Lost in first round, 0–4 ([[Winnipeg Jets|Jets]])
|- style="background:#eee;"
| [[2021–22 NHL season|2021–22]] || 82 || 49 || 27 || 6 || 104 || 290 || 252 || 2nd, Pacific || Lost in conference finals, 0–4 ([[Colorado Avalanche|Avalanche]])
|-
| [[2022–23 NHL season|2022–23]] || 82 || 50 || 23 || 9 || 109 || 325 || 260 || 2nd, Pacific || Lost in second round, 2–4 ([[Vegas Golden Knights|Golden Knights]])
|- style="background:#eee;"
| [[2023–24 NHL season|2023–24]] || 82 || 49 || 27 || 6 || 104 || 294 || 237 || 2nd, Pacific || Lost in [[2024 Stanley Cup Final|Stanley Cup Final]], 3–4 ([[Florida Panthers|Panthers]])
|-
| [[2024–25 NHL season|2024–25]] || 82 || 48 || 29 || 5 || 101 || 259 || 236 || 3rd, Pacific || Lost in [[2025 Stanley Cup Final|Stanley Cup Final]], 2–4 (Panthers)
|}
==Players and personnel==
===Current roster===
{{Edmonton Oilers roster}}
===Team captains===
''Note: This list includes
{{div col}}
* [[Al Hamilton]],
* [[Glen Sather]],
* [[Paul Shmyr]],
* [[Ron Chipperfield]],
* [[Blair MacDonald]],
* [[Lee Fogolin]],
* [[Wayne Gretzky]],
* [[Mark Messier]], 1988–1991
* [[
* [[
* [[
* [[
* [[
* [[Jason Smith (ice hockey)|Jason Smith]], 2001–2007
* [[Ethan Moreau]], 2007–2010
* [[Shawn Horcoff]], 2010–2013
* [[Andrew Ference]], 2013–2015
* [[Ryan Smyth]]*, 2014 (one game)
* [[Connor McDavid]], 2016–present
{{div col end}}
<small>* Ryan Smyth was named captain for his final NHL game</small>
===Head coaches===
''Note: This list includes the Oilers' head coaches from both the NHL and WHA.''
{{div col}}
* [[Ray Kinasewich]], 1972–1973
* [[Bill Hunter (ice hockey)|Bill Hunter]], 1972–1973
* [[Brian C. Shaw|Brian Shaw]], 1973–1975
* Bill Hunter, 1974–1975
* [[Clare Drake]], 1975–1976
* Bill Hunter, 1975–1976
* [[Bep Guidolin]], 1976–1977
* [[Glen Sather]], 1977–1980
* [[Bryan Watson (ice hockey)|Bryan Watson]], 1980
* [[Glen Sather]], 1980–1989
* [[John Muckler]], 1989–1991
* [[Ted Green]], 1991–1993
* Glen Sather, 1993–1994
* [[George Burnett (ice hockey)|George Burnett]], 1994–1995
* [[Ron Low]], 1994–1999
* [[Kevin Lowe]], 1999–2000
* [[Craig MacTavish]], 2000–2009
* [[Pat Quinn (ice hockey)|Pat Quinn]], 2009–2010
* [[Tom Renney]], 2010–2012
* [[Ralph Krueger]], 2012–2013
* [[Dallas Eakins]], 2013–2014
* [[Todd Nelson (ice hockey)|Todd Nelson]] (interim), 2014–2015
* [[Todd McLellan]], 2015–2018
* [[Ken Hitchcock]], 2018–2019
* [[Dave Tippett]], 2019–2022
* [[Jay Woodcroft]], 2022–2023
* [[Kris Knoblauch]], 2023–present
{{div col end}}
===General managers===
''Note: This list includes the Oilers' general managers from both the NHL and WHA.''
{{div col}}
* [[Bill Hunter (ice hockey)|Bill Hunter]], 1972–1976
* [[Bep Guidolin]], 1976–1977
* [[Brian Conacher]], 1977–1978
* [[Larry Gordon (ice hockey)|Larry Gordon]], 1978–1980
* [[Glen Sather]], 1980–2000
* [[Kevin Lowe]], 2000–2008
* [[Steve Tambellini]], 2008–2013
* [[Craig McTavish]], 2013–2015
* [[Peter Chiarelli (ice hockey)|Peter Chiarelli]], 2015–2019
* [[Keith Gretzky]] (interim), 2019
* [[Ken Holland]], 2019–2024
* [[Jeff Jackson (ice hockey, born 1965)|Jeff Jackson]] (interim), 2024
* [[Stan Bowman]], 2024–present
{{div col end}}
===
{{See also|List of Edmonton Oilers award winners}}
===
The Oilers have retired eight numbers.<ref>{{cite web |title=Edmonton Oilers to retire Kevin Lowe's No. 4 Friday night |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/8350881/edmonton-oilers-kevin-lowe-jersey-retired-nhl/ |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=630CHED}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"
|+ style="background:#fff; border-top:#00205B 5px solid; border-bottom:#D14520 5px solid;"|Edmonton Oilers retired numbers
|-
! style="width:40px;"|No.
! style="width:130px;"|Player
! style="width:40px;"|Position
! style="width:150px;"|Career
! style="width:150px;"|No. retirement
|-
| '''3''' || [[Al Hamilton]] || [[Defenceman|D]] || 1972–1980 || October 10, 1980 <sup>1</sup>
|-
| '''4''' || [[Kevin Lowe]] || [[Defenceman|D]] || 1979–1992<br />1996–1997 || November 5, 2021
|-
| '''7''' || [[Paul Coffey]] || [[Defenceman|D]] || 1980–1987 || October 18, 2005
|-
| '''9''' || [[Glenn Anderson]] || [[Winger (ice hockey)|RW]] || 1980–1991<br />1995–1996 || January 18, 2009
|-
| '''11''' || [[Mark Messier]] || [[Winger (ice hockey)|LW]]/[[Centre (ice hockey)|C]]|| 1979–1991 || February 27, 2007
|-
| '''17''' || [[Jari Kurri]] || [[Winger (ice hockey)|RW]] || 1980–1990 || October 6, 2001
|-
| '''31''' || [[Grant Fuhr]] || [[Goaltender|G]] || 1981–1991 || October 9, 2003
|-
| '''99''' <sup>2</sup> || [[Wayne Gretzky]] || [[Centre (ice hockey)|C]] || 1978–1988 || October 1, 1999
|}
'''Notes:'''
* <sup>1</sup> ''Jersey ceremony held April 4, 2001.''
* <sup>2</sup> ''Gretzky's no. 99 was retired League-wide by the [[National Hockey League|NHL]] on February 6, 2000.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://thehockeywriters.com/feb-6-history-hull-bossy-gretzky/ | title=Today in Hockey History: Feb. 6 | date=February 6, 2022}}</ref>
'''Numbers honoured'''
* '''3542''' – [[Rod Phillips (broadcaster)|Rod Phillips]], broadcaster, 1973–2011, number honoured represents the 3,542 games Phillips called for the Oilers.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Dhariwal |first1=Min |title=Play-by-play ace Rod Phillips looks back on 'great hockey building' |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/rod-phillips-tickled-to-call-the-finest-hockey-of-the-day-at-northlands-1.3513009 |website=CBC.ca |access-date=May 24, 2025}}</ref>
====Edmonton Oilers Hall of Fame====
On September 7, 2022, the Oilers announced the establishment of their own club Hall of Fame. Inductees are selected based on their contributions or services to the team since its founding in 1972. The inaugural Class of 2022 members included [[Al Hamilton]], [[Wayne Gretzky]], [[Jari Kurri]], [[Grant Fuhr]], [[Paul Coffey]], [[Mark Messier]], [[Glenn Anderson]], [[Kevin Lowe]], [[Glen Sather]] and [[Rod Phillips (broadcaster)|Rod Phillips]], all of whom had already seen their respective banners raised to the rafters. In addition, it was revealed that there would be another two further members seeing induction.<ref>{{cite web |title=RELEASE: Oilers Hall of Fame established |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/release-oilers-hall-of-fame-established/c-335482344 |access-date=September 7, 2022 |website=NHL.com |date=September 7, 2022}}</ref> On September 20, it was revealed that [[Lee Fogolin]]<ref>{{cite web |title=OILERS HOF: Fogolin helped build the foundation for Oilers dynasty |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-hof-fogolin-helped-build-the-foundation-for-oilers-dynasty/c-337130920 |access-date=November 2, 2022 |website=NHL.com |date=November 2, 2022}}</ref> and [[Ryan Smyth]]<ref>{{cite web |title=OILERS HOF: Smyth follows his hockey hero to Hall of Fame honour |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/oilers-hof-smyth-follows-his-hockey-hero-to-hall-of-fame-honour/c-337128200 |access-date=November 2, 2022 |website=NHL.com |date=November 2, 2022}}</ref> would also join the enshrined banner honourees. On November 3, Fogolin and Smyth officially took their places in the 2022 Hall of Fame, during a pre-game ceremony before the Oilers played the [[New Jersey Devils]] at [[Rogers Place]].
Beginning in 2023, Oilers fans will be able to participate in the selection process for nominees into future Oilers Hall of Fame Classes. The 2023 Oilers of Fame Class had their induction ceremony during the [[2023 Heritage Classic]] weekend event, which took place on October 26–29.<ref>{{cite web |title=RELEASE: Oilers Hall of Fame open for 2023 nominations |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/release-oilers-hall-of-fame-open-for-2023-nominations/c-343542202 |access-date=April 14, 2023 |website=NHL.com |date=April 14, 2023}}</ref> On September 20, 2023, the Oilers announced that [[Charlie Huddy]] and former team captain [[Doug Weight]] would be the two members of the 2023 Hall of Fame class. Both Huddy and Weight were officially inducted before the Oilers game against the visiting [[New York Rangers]], on October 26.<ref>{{cite web |title=RELEASE: Huddy, Weight to be added to Oilers Hall of Fame |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/release-huddy-weight-to-be-added-to-oilers-hall-of-fame |access-date=September 20, 2023 |website=NHL.com |date=September 20, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RELEASE: Weight, Huddy to be added to Oilers HOF this Thursday |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/release-weight-huddy-to-be-added-to-oilers-hof-this-thursday |access-date=October 23, 2023 |website=NHL.com |date=October 23, 2023}}</ref>
On August 1, 2024, the Oilers announced [[Craig MacTavish]] and [[Randy Gregg (ice hockey)|Randy Gregg]] would be inducted into the Oilers Hall of Fame, ahead of their home game against the [[Pittsburgh Penguins]] on October 25.<ref>{{cite news |title=RELEASE: MacTavish & Gregg to be inducted into Oilers HOF |url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/news/release-mactavish-gregg-to-be-inducted-into-oilers-hof |access-date=8 August 2024 |work=nhl.com |publisher=NHL |date=August 1, 2024}}</ref>
====Hockey Hall of Fame honourees====
[[File:Paul Coffey in 2007.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Paul Coffey]] was inducted into the [[Hockey Hall of Fame]] in 2004.]]
The Oilers are affiliated with several inductees in the [[Hockey Hall of Fame]].
Twelve Oilers players have been inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. [[Jacques Plante]], who briefly played for the Oilers in the WHA was inducted in 1978. Regarded as one of the greatest goalies of all time, Plante led the [[Montreal Canadiens]] to six Stanley Cups through the 1950s and early 1960s.<ref>{{cite web |title=Jacques Plante: 100 Greatest NHL Players |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/jacques-plante-100-greatest-nhl-hockey-players/c-284177320 |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=NHL.com}}</ref> [[Norm Ullman]], who played for the Oilers in the WHA was inducted in 1982. Ullman played 20 years for the [[Detroit Red Wings]] and [[Toronto Maple Leafs]] putting up 1,229 points. Ullman is among the top scoring forwards ever to play in the NHL.<ref>{{cite web |title=NHL Forwards ‑ All-Time Points Leaders |url=https://www.quanthockey.com/nhl/records/nhl-forwards-all-time-points-leaders.html |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=QuantHockey}}</ref> [[Wayne Gretzky]] was immediately inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1999, after retiring the same year. Gretzky played 10 seasons with the Oilers and captained them to their first four Stanley Cup championships.<ref>{{cite web |title=Wayne Gretzky: 100 Greatest NHL Players |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/wayne-gretzky-100-greatest-nhl-hockey-players/c-285574558 |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=NHL.com}}</ref> Known as "The Great One", Gretzky is considered the greatest hockey player ever and holds the NHL record with most assists and points.<ref>{{cite web |title=99 Reasons Why Wayne Gretzky is "The Great One" |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/99-reasons-why-wayne-gretzky-is-the-great-one/c-384579 |publisher=NHL.com |access-date=December 1, 2022 |date=October 2, 2004}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=NHL All-Time Points Leaders |url=https://www.quanthockey.com/nhl/records/nhl-players-all-time-points-leaders.html |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=QuantHockey}}</ref> In 2001, [[Jari Kurri]] became the first Finnish player to be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. An Oilers selection from the [[1980 NHL entry draft]], Kurri played 10 seasons with the Oilers, winning all five of their Stanley Cups.<ref>{{cite web |date=November 13, 2017 |title=Most underappreciated Hockey Hall of Famers |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/21397390/nhl-most-underappreciated-hockey-hall-famers |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=ESPN.com}}</ref> Goaltender [[Grant Fuhr]], who was present during the "dynasty era" was inducted in 2003.<ref>{{cite web |title=Black History Month spotlight: Fuhr gets Hall call |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/black-history-month-spotlight-grant-fuhr/c-304588320 |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=NHL.com}}</ref> In 2004, [[Paul Coffey]] was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. [[Mark Messier]] was inducted in 2007, also in his first year of eligibility. Messier is often considered the Greatest Leader in professional sports and is to date, the only person in NHL history to ever captain two different Stanley Cup championship-winning teams, as a member of both the 1990 Edmonton Oilers and the 1994 [[New York Rangers]]. In 2008, [[Glenn Anderson]] became the final Oilers player to be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame during the 2000s. [[Adam Oates]] was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2012. Oates played 60 games with the Oilers after signing a one-year contract in 2003. Considered an elite playmaker, Oates totaled 1,079 assists which at the time of his retirement made him the fifth most assisted player in NHL history.<ref>{{cite web |title=Adam Oates Elected to Hockey Hall of Fame |url=https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/adam-oates-elected-to-hockey-hall-of-fame/c-636131 |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=NHL.com}}</ref> [[Chris Pronger]], who played defence for the Oilers was inducted in 2015.<ref>{{cite web |title=Chris Pronger elected to Hockey Hall of Fame |url=https://www.nhl.com/flyers/news/chris-pronger-elected-to-hockey-hall-of-fame/c-772914 |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=NHL.com}}</ref> Pronger helped lead the Oilers to their 2006 Stanley Cup run. [[Kevin Lowe]] was inducted in 2020. Lowe played with the Oilers from 1979 to 1992 and from 1996 to 1998. After retiring, Lowe became head coach of the Oilers and soon after became their general manager.<ref>{{cite web |last=Swane |first=Brian |date=November 18, 2021 |title=Oilers Hall of Famer Kevin Lowe Shines Spotlight on Unsung Heroes |url=https://thehockeywriters.com/oilers-kevin-lowe-shines-spotlight-unsung-heroes/ |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=The Hockey Writers}}</ref> The most recent inductee who played for the Oilers is [[Duncan Keith]] in 2025, who played defence during the [[2021–22 NHL season|2021–22 season]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/hockey-hall-of-fame-unveils-class-of-2025/ |title=Hockey Hall of Fame unveils class of 2025 |website=[[Sportsnet]] |date=June 25, 2025 |access-date=July 3, 2025}}</ref>
Six Oilers builders have been inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. The first was [[Glen Sather]], who was inducted in 1997. Sather was a head coach for the Oilers from 1976 to 2000, leading them to four Stanley Cups.<ref>{{cite web |last=Laing |first=Zach |date=May 19, 2020 |title=NHL History: Glen Sather leaves Edmonton Oilers after 24 years with organization |url=https://oilersnation.com/2020/05/19/nhl-history-glen-sather-leaves-edmonton-oilers-after-24-years-with-organization/ |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=OILERSNATION}}</ref> [[Roger Neilson]] who was inducted in 2002, briefly worked for the Oilers as a video analyst during the [[1984 Stanley Cup playoffs]]. Broadcaster [[Rod Phillips (broadcaster)|Rod Phillips]] was awarded the [[Foster Hewitt Memorial Award]] by the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003. [[Pat Quinn (ice hockey)|Pat Quinn]], who coached the Oilers for one year in 2009 was posthumously inducted in 2016.<ref>{{cite web |title=Pat Quinn honored for inspiring excellence |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/pat-quinn-set-for-hockey-hall-of-fame-induction/c-283535038 |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=NHL.com}}</ref> In his first and only season as head coach of the Oilers, the team finished in last place in the league with a record of 27–47–8.<ref>{{cite web |title=2009–2010 NHL Hockey Standings |url=https://www.nhl.com/standings/2009/league |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=NHL.com}}</ref> [[Clare Drake]] was inducted in 2017. During the [[1975–76 WHA season]], Drake served as the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers.<ref>{{cite web |title=Clare Drake's Legacy |url=https://bearsandpandas.ca/sports/2020/11/1/clare-drakes-legacy.aspx |access-date=May 17, 2022 |website=University of Alberta}}</ref> [[Ken Holland]], Oilers general manager and president of hockey operations from 2019 to 2024 was inducted in 2020.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Campbell |first=Tim |date=November 15, 2021 |title=Holland persevered, adapted on way to Hockey Hall of Fame |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/ken-holland-persevered-adapted-on-way-to-hockey-hall-of-fame/c-327789838 |access-date=May 30, 2022 |website=NHL.com}}</ref> [[Ken Hitchcock]], who coached the Oilers during the [[2018–19 NHL season]] was inducted in 2023.
==Franchise records==
===Scoring leaders===
[[File:Ryan Smyth - Edmonton Oilers.jpg|thumb|upright|Recording 296 regular season goals while playing with the Oilers, [[Ryan Smyth]] is the franchise's ninth-highest all-time goalscorer.]]
These are the top-ten point, goal, and assist scorers in franchise history. Figures are updated after each completed NHL regular season.
'''''Note:''' Pos = Position; GP = Games Played; G = Goals; A = Assists; Pts = Points; P/G = Points per game''
* {{Color box|#CCFFCC|*|border=darkgray}} – current Oilers player
'''''Note:''' This list includes WHA statistics.''
<!--PLEASE DO NOT UPDATE STATISTICS MID-SEASON, AS IT CREATES MORE PROBLEMS THAN IT SOLVES AND WIKIPEDIA'S PURPOSE IS NOT TO PROVIDE UP-TO-THE-MINUTE STATISTICS. PLEASE SAVE THE UPDATING OF STATISTICS UNTIL THE END OF THE REGULAR SEASON AND/OR PLAYOFFS.-->
{{col-begin|width=auto}}
{{col-break}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
|+ style="background:#fff; border-top:#00205B 5px solid; border-bottom:#D14520 5px solid;"|Points
|-
! Player !! Pos !! {{tooltip|GP|Games played}} !! {{tooltip|G|Goals}} !! {{tooltip|A|Assists}} !! {{tooltip|Pts|Points}} !! {{tooltip|P/G|Points per game}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Wayne Gretzky]] || C || 768 || 626 || 1,147 || '''1,773''' || 2.31
|- style="background:#cfc;"
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Connor McDavid]]* || C || 712 || 361 || 721 || '''1,082''' || 1.52
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Jari Kurri]] || RW || 754 || 474 || 569 || '''1,043''' || 1.38
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Mark Messier]] || C || 851 || 392 || 642 || '''1,034''' || 1.22
|- style="background:#cfc;"
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Leon Draisaitl]]* || C || 790 || 399 || 557 || '''956''' || 1.21
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Glenn Anderson]] || RW || 845 || 417 || 489 || '''906''' || 1.07
|- style="background:#cfc;"
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Ryan Nugent-Hopkins]]* || C || 959 || 271 || 477 || '''748''' || .78
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Paul Coffey]] || D || 532 || 209 || 460 || '''669''' || 1.26
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Ryan Smyth]] || LW || 971 || 296 || 335 || '''631''' || .65
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Doug Weight]] || C || 588 || 157 || 420 || '''577''' || .98
|}
{{col-break}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
|+ style="background:#fff; border-top:#00205B 5px solid; border-bottom:#D14520 5px solid;"|Goals
|-
! Player !! Pos !! {{tooltip|G|Goals}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Wayne Gretzky]] || C || 626
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Jari Kurri]] || RW || 474
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Glenn Anderson]] || RW || 417
|- style="background:#cfc;"
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Leon Draisaitl]]* || C || 399
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Mark Messier]] || C || 392
|- style="background:#cfc;"
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Connor McDavid]]* || C || 361
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Ryan Smyth]] || LW || 296
|- style="background:#cfc;"
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Ryan Nugent-Hopkins]]* || C || 271
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Paul Coffey]] || D || 209
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Craig Simpson]] || LW || 185
|}
{{col-break}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
|+ style="background:#fff; border-top:#00205B 5px solid; border-bottom:#D14520 5px solid;"|Assists
|-
! Player !! Pos !! {{tooltip|A|Assists}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Wayne Gretzky]] || C || 1,147
|- style="background:#cfc;"
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Connor McDavid]]* || C || 721
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Mark Messier]] || C || 642
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Jari Kurri]] || RW || 569
|- style="background:#cfc;"
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Leon Draisaitl]]* || C || 557
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Glenn Anderson]] || RW || 489
|- style="background:#cfc;"
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Ryan Nugent-Hopkins]]* || C || 477
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Paul Coffey]] || D || 460
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Doug Weight]] || C || 420
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[Aleš Hemský|Ales Hemsky]] || RW || 335
|}
{{col-end}}
===Single-season leaders===
Items marked in '''bold''' are NHL records.
{{div col}}
* Most goals in a season: [[Wayne Gretzky]], '''92''' (1981–82)
* Most assists in a season: [[Wayne Gretzky]], '''163''' (1985–86)
* Most points in a season: [[Wayne Gretzky]], '''215''' (1985–86)
* Most penalty minutes in a season: [[Steve Smith (ice hockey, born in Scotland)|Steve Smith]], 286 (1987–88)
* Most goals in a season, defenceman: [[Paul Coffey]], '''48''' (1985–86)
* Most points in a season, defenceman: [[Paul Coffey]], 138 (1985–86)
* Most goals in a season, rookie: [[Jason Arnott]], 33 (1993–94)
* Most assists in a season, rookie: [[Jari Kurri]], 43 (1980–81)
* Most points in a season, rookie: [[Jari Kurri]], 75 (1980–81)
* Most wins in a season: [[Cam Talbot]], 42 (2016–17)
* Most shutouts in a season: [[Curtis Joseph]]; [[Tommy Salo]], 8 (1997–98; 2000–01)
{{div col end}}
==NHL awards and trophies==
{{main|List of Edmonton Oilers award winners}}
{{col-float|width=48%}}
'''[[Stanley Cup]]'''
*[[
'''[[Presidents' Trophy]]'''
*[[
'''[[Clarence S. Campbell Bowl]]'''
*[[
'''[[Art Ross Trophy]]'''
*[[Wayne Gretzky]]: [[
*[[Connor McDavid]]: [[2016–17 NHL season|2016–17]], [[2017–18 NHL season|2017–18]], [[2020–21 NHL season|2020–21]], [[2021–22 NHL season|2021–22]], [[2022–23 NHL season|2022–23]]
*[[Leon Draisaitl]]: [[2019–20 NHL season|2019–20]]
'''[[Conn Smythe Trophy]]'''
*[[Mark Messier]]: [[
*[[Wayne Gretzky]]: [[
*[[Bill Ranford]]: [[
*[[Connor McDavid]]: [[2023–24 NHL season|2023–24]]
'''[[Hart Memorial Trophy]]'''
*[[Wayne Gretzky]]: [[
*[[Mark Messier]]: [[
*[[Connor McDavid]]: [[2016–17 NHL season|2016–17]], [[2020–21 NHL season|2020–21]], [[2022–23 NHL season|2022–23]]
*[[Leon Draisaitl]]: [[2019–20 NHL season|2019–20]]
'''[[Jack Adams Award]]'''
*[[Glen Sather]]: [[
'''[[James Norris Memorial Trophy]]'''
*[[Paul Coffey]]: [[
'''[[King Clancy Memorial Trophy]]'''
*[[Kevin Lowe]]: [[
*[[Ethan Moreau]]: [[2008–09 NHL season|2008–09]]
*[[Andrew Ference]]: [[2013–14 NHL season|2013–14]]
'''[[Lady Byng Memorial Trophy]]'''
*[[Wayne Gretzky]]: [[
*[[Jari Kurri]]: [[
'''[[Ted Lindsay Award|Lester B. Pearson Award/Ted Lindsay Award]]'''
*[[Wayne Gretzky]]: [[
*[[Mark Messier]]: [[
*[[Connor McDavid]]: [[2016–17 NHL season|2016–17]], [[2017–18 NHL season|2017–18]], [[2020–21 NHL season|2020–21]], [[2022–23 NHL season|2022–23]]
*[[Leon Draisaitl]]: [[2019–20 NHL season|2019–20]]
'''[[Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy]]'''
*[[
'''[[NHL Plus/Minus Award]]'''
*[[Charlie Huddy]]: [[
*[[Wayne Gretzky]]: [[
'''[[Vezina Trophy]]'''
*[[Grant Fuhr]]: [[
{{col-float-end}}
==Home arenas==
[[File:Rogers Place, Edmonton, June 6, 2024.jpg|thumb|[[Rogers Place]] is the present home of the Edmonton Oilers.]]
* [[Edmonton Gardens]] (1972–1974)
* [[Northlands Coliseum]] (1974–2016)
* [[Commonwealth Stadium (Edmonton)|Commonwealth Stadium]] ([[2003 Heritage Classic]], [[2023 Heritage Classic]])
* [[Rogers Place]] (2016–present)
==Broadcasters==
Television rights to most Edmonton Oilers games are held by [[Rogers Media]]. This includes all regional telecasts, which are carried by [[Sportsnet West]] and the overflow channel Sportsnet Oilers, as well as nationally televised games on [[NHL on Sportsnet|Sportsnet]] or ''[[Hockey Night in Canada]]'' – which may be broadcast by [[CBC Television]], [[Citytv]], or Sportsnet. The team's broadcast region is shared with the [[Calgary Flames]] and includes all of [[Alberta]], [[Saskatchewan]], [[Northwest Territories]] and [[Nunavut]]. As of 2021, [[Jack Michaels]] calls play-by-play on most Oilers TV broadcasts alongside [[Louie DeBrusk]] and reporter [[Gene Principe]]. In the 2024–25 season, Rogers sublicensed its Monday night NHL games, including those involving the Oilers, exclusively to [[Prime Video]], with no regional broadcast available for those streaming broadcasts.
On radio, the games are aired on [[CHED (AM)|CHED]], called by either Cam Moon or Jack Michaels and Bob Stauffer. Brenden Escott serves as reporter, while [[Rob Brown (ice hockey)|Rob Brown]] serves as an analyst during intermissions and post-game.<ref>{{cite web|title=Oilers Hockey Institute Instructors|url=https://www.nhl.com/oilers/community/oilers-hockey-institute-instructors|website=NHL.com|accessdate=May 14, 2025}}</ref> Moon calls the games that are scheduled as regional broadcasts. When games are nationally broadcast, Michaels moves from TV to radio.
==See also==
* [[World Hockey Association]]
* [[List of Stanley Cup champions]]
* [[List of ice hockey teams in Alberta]]
* [[List of Edmonton Oilers head coaches]]
* [[Oilogosphere]]
==Notes==
{{notelist}}
==References==
==
* {{cite web|url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/careerstats.htm?fetchKey=00002EDMSAHAll&sort=points&viewName=careerLeadersForTeam|title=Edmonton Oilers All-Time (All Skaters) Statistics|publisher=National Hockey League}}
* {{cite web|url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/careerstats.htm?fetchKey=00002EDMSAHAll&sort=points&viewName=careerLeadersSingleSeason|title=Edmonton Oilers All-Time Single Season (All Skaters) Statistics|publisher=National Hockey League}}
* {{cite web|url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/careerstats.htm?fetchKey=00002EDMDAHAll&sort=goals&viewName=careerLeadersSingleSeasonForTeam|title=Edmonton Oilers All-Time Single Season (defenceman) Statistics|publisher=National Hockey League}}
* {{cite web|url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/careerstats.htm?fetchKey=00002EDMGAHAll&sort=shutOuts&viewName=careerLeadersSingleSeasonGoaliesForTeam|title=Edmonton Oilers All-Time Single Season (goaltenders) Statistics|publisher=National Hockey League}}
===Specific===
{{reflist}}
==Further reading==
* {{cite book |last = Gaschnitz|first =Michael |year =2003 |title =The Edmonton Oilers |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=qAEizGtRahAC&q=Edmonton%20Oilers&pg=PP1|publisher=McFarland |isbn=0-7864-1252-6}}
* {{cite book |last = Mole|first =Rich |year =2006 |title = Edmonton Oilers: Against All Odds|url =https://books.google.com/books?id=nc4nl2wA8FYC&q=Edmonton%20Oilers&pg=PP1 |publisher= Heritage House Publishing|isbn= 1-55439-227-6}}
==External links==
{{commons category|Edmonton Oilers}}
* {{Official website|https://www.nhl.com/oilers}}
* [https://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/display_affiliations_parent.php?tmi=5632 Historical farm team affiliates]
{{
{{Navboxes| titlestyle = background:#FFFFFF; border-top:#00205B 5px solid; border-bottom:#D14520 5px solid;|list1=
{{s-start}}
{{s-bef |before = [[New York Islanders]]}}
{{s-ttl |title = [[Stanley Cup]] champions |years = [[1983–84 NHL season|1983–84]], [[1984–85 NHL season|1984–85]]}}
{{s-aft |after = [[Montreal Canadiens]]}}
{{s-bef |before = [[Montreal Canadiens]]}}
{{s-ttl |title = [[Stanley Cup]] champions |years = [[1986–87 NHL season|1986–87]], [[1987–88 NHL season|1987–88]]}}
{{s-aft |after = [[Calgary Flames]]}}
{{s-bef |before = [[Calgary Flames]]}}
{{s-ttl |title = [[Stanley Cup]] champions |years = [[1989–90 NHL season|1989–90]]}}
{{s-aft |after = [[Pittsburgh Penguins]]}}
{{s-end}}
{{NHL}}
{{WHA}}
{{Alberta Sports}}
{{Katz Group}}
}}
{{Portal bar|Ice hockey|Canada}}
{{Authority control}}
[[Category:Edmonton Oilers| ]]
[[Category:National Hockey League teams]]
[[Category:1972 establishments in Alberta]]
[[Category:Ice hockey clubs established in 1972]]
[[Category:National Hockey League teams based in Canada]]
[[
[[Category:Pacific Division (NHL)]]
| |||