McDavid is really struggling for the Edmonton Oilers right now
The Edmonton Oilers have lost five straight for the first time since 2021-22, and their captain’s play has had a big part in it.
While McDavid is by no means the only reason for the Oilers’ struggles as of late, he has really struggled coming out of the 4 Nations Face-Off break. He’s managed just three assists while having a plus/minus of -3.
“I’d be lying if I said I’ve been feeling good out there,” McDavid said before last night’s game versus the Florida Panthers. “It’s been tough to get going, which is obviously not an excuse. I’ve got to find a way to get going here. Obviously a big emotional week, exciting week last week. [It’s been] back to reality pretty quick.”
“I’d be lying if I said I’ve been feeling good out there.”
Connor McDavid speaks on the transition back to NHL hockey following the #4Nations Face-Off pic.twitter.com/FidCDhYCar
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) February 27, 2025
Oilers fans who have watched this team closely all season will tell you that, despite having an impressive 74 points through 53 games, McDavid hasn’t been his usual dominant self in 2024-25. Instead, Leon Draisaitl has really stepped up and helped lead the team to their 34-21-4 record.
Over a full 82-game pace, McDavid would be on pace to record 114 points. That, by most players’ standards, would be an absolutely incredible season. For the 28-year-old superstar, however, it would mark his lowest total since the 56-game 2020-21 season, where he still managed a ridiculous 105 points.
McDavid, who scored a career-high 64 goals in 2022-23, has just 22 on the season. He’s found the back of the net once over his last nine outings and is currently on a six-game goalless drought.
Every player, even one as elite as McDavid, is going to go through struggles at times. If anything, his latest slump goes to show just how integral he is to the success of the Oilers. They’re in a serious rut and need their leader to get back to being the best player in the NHL.
He’ll look to snap out of his funk and, in turn, help the Oilers snap their losing skid tomorrow night versus the Carolina Hurricanes.
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