16 hours ago
Spicy moment as Jim Matheson annoys Connor McDavid again with a question Oilers fans hated
Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers addresses the media (Credit: Getty Images)
Connor McDavid, the stoic and often reserved captain of the Edmonton Oilers, showed rare public frustration when fielding a question from long-time local reporter Jim Matheson.
The team is in a must-win situation ahead of Game 6 in Edmonton, but the mood during the media availability was already heavy. What should have been a moment to focus on strategy, adjustments, or motivation turned into an awkward distraction.
The question posed by Matheson wasn't aggressive, but it carried an air of provocation that many felt was poorly timed. It struck a nerve with McDavid, who reacted with a brief pause and a sharp look before offering a short, unimpressed reply.
The moment instantly drew attention across sports networks and social media platforms.
Jim Matheson draws backlash for latest question
Jim Matheson, a Hall of Fame journalist with over 50 years of experience covering the Oilers, has become a controversial figure among younger fans. Many believe his style is outdated and that his press conference questions often feel out of touch with the current tone of the team and the league.
This week's exchange with McDavid reignited the criticism.
Fans and analysts alike questioned whether Matheson's line of questioning was useful or just another attempt to manufacture drama. In a moment where the Oilers are fighting to stay alive in the Stanley Cup Final, media questions that distract from the on-ice product feel especially tone-deaf.
Oilers' focus shifts back to Stanley Cup push
With the media moment fading, the Oilers now turn their attention to Game 6, where they will face the Florida Panthers on home ice.
Edmonton trails in the series but has a chance to push it to a Game 7 with a win. There's pressure, history, and opportunity wrapped into one pivotal night.
Forward Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is expected to return, providing a boost to the Oilers' depth. As for the goalie situation, head coach Kris Knoblauch remains tight-lipped. He said he will consult players and staff before choosing between Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard.
Skinner may get the nod again after Pickard's loss in Game 5.
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Despite the noise around the press conference, the Oilers must refocus. They've fought through adversity all postseason, and with a chance to keep the Cup dream alive in front of their home crowd, distractions like Matheson's question can only be just that: distractions.
