Stan Bowman: Oilers changes will focus on attack and goaltending

Does this surprise you?

Yes, it surprises me too.

After seeing the Oilers’ defense get ripped apart by the offense and the Panthers’ absolutely masterful forecheck, it’s hard to believe that no changes need to be made on defense.

Obviously, the Oilers don’t have a bad defense, but it may be a little too attack-oriented with guys like Evan Bouchard, Darnell Nurse, Jake Walman and even John Klingberg.

A defense with so many offensive-minded defenders can’t work, at least not in the playoffs.

Logically, there should be choices to be made, but Stan Bowman likes his defense.

At least the Oilers GM seems to have understood that a breath of fresh air is needed in front of the net, because clearly, Stuart Skinner isn’t the man for the job.

He’s really THE missing piece in Edmonton, namely a quality goalie.

The Oilers would probably have at least one Cup by now if they’d solved this problem sooner…

And on the forward front, well, clearly Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl need to be better surrounded, but that’s easier said than done.

The Oilers’ off-season will be very interesting to watch, while the Stanley Cup remains the obvious goal.

Overtime

– Ouch.

– Read on.

– To listen.

– Too bad for him.