5 days ago
Stanley Cup shame sparks Oilers' panic move—goalie coach out as franchise refuses to face roster truth
Edmonton Oilers' awaited goaltending changes get new update (Image via AP)
The Edmonton Oilers did not revive goaltending coach Dustin Schwartz's contract, sparking conjecture about significant changes. Insider Evan Renaerts suggests the team might create a panoptic goaltending department instead of just replacing Schwartz.
With top candidates for the coaching role being considered, this strategic shift aims to bolster goalie development and performance after recent playoff struggles.
After goaltending disaster, Oilers target coaches instead of replacing struggling netminders
The Edmonton Oilers are reorganizing their coaching staff, particularly concerning their netminders. After a decade with the team, goaltending coach Dustin Schwartz's contract was not extended, prompting a search for a replacement and potentially a much broader restructuring.
Especially after their recent playoff performance, this move comes as the Oilers aim to solidify their last line of defense, a significant point of discussion.
Hockey analyst Evan Renaerts shared insights into the club's thinking, uttering, "The Edmonton Oilers management is reportedly nearing a decision regarding their goaltending coach, indicating a significant overhaul in that area of the coaching staff."
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He also hinted that the team might move beyond the traditional single-coach model.
Renaerts unfolded, "This strategic shift aims to provide a more robust support system for their goalies, reflecting a commitment to enhanced development and performance in the crease." This signifies a potential investment in a more extensive goaltending department, a departure from their current setup.
The team's struggles in goal were apparent during the Stanley Cup Final, where the Panthers outwitted them.
Ahead of a critical Game 6, head coach Kris Knoblauch had appreciated the tough choices he faced, voicing, "It's not an easy decision. We've got two goalies that have shown they can play extremely well, win hockey games, and we feel that no matter who we choose, they can win the game." Despite this, the team's goaltending ultimately halted.
There's a belief within the organization that the solution lies not in replacing their current goaltenders but in enhancing the coaching and support around them.
General Manager Stan Bowman, when asked about acquiring new goalies, phrased, "We're not at the point where we're definitely bringing in new goalies. It could make sense to keep this group. It's about finding that sweet spot." This implies a focus on development within the existing roster, supported by a more robust coaching framework.
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This strategic direction is acquiring traction among hockey pundits. Jason Gregor of Oilers Nation advocates for a structured goalie department, particularly given the team's promising young talent. He emphasizes that the Oilers, with their significant resources, should invest heavily in developing their goaltending future. Names like Ian Clark, Sean Burke, and Stéphane Waite are propagating as potential candidates, highlighting the Oilers' urgent and focused strategy to strengthen their goaltending foundation.
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