2013-14 Preview: Is Petry still part of the solution?

The 2013 season was not kind to Jeff Petry. After taking a major step forward in his overall development during the second half of the 2011-12 campaign, the Edmonton Oilers blueliner had his fair share of struggles during an abbreviated 48 game schedule. Be it because too much was being asked of the former second round pick and partner Ladislav Smid or simply chalking it up to just being one of those seasons, the final result wasn't pretty. 

Coach Eakins and the Oilers top six forwards

With training camp fast approaching, one can't help but wonder what Edmonton Oilers head coach Dallas Eakins has in store for his top six forwards heading into 2013-14. If you include Ryan Nugent-Hopkins into the mix, who looks to be recuperating rather nicely from off-season shoulder surgery, the Oilers top two lines will feature Jordan Eberle, Sam Gagner, Taylor Hall, Nugent-Hopkins, David Perron and Nail Yakupov. An impressive group for sure but how the rookie coach ultimately decides to deploy them, could be rather interesting.

RNH could return sooner than most think

It's been fourteen weeks since Edmonton Oilers centre Ryan Nugent-Hopkins went under the knife to repair a torn labrum in his shoulder. While most seem almost resigned to the idea of the former first overall pick missing the opening month of the 2013-14 NHL schedule, don't be surprised to see #93 hit the ice in time to start the season or shortly there after.

Bogosian signing could set the bar for the Oilers and Justin Schultz

When the Winnipeg Jets announced the signing of Zach Bogosian to a 7year/ $36 million extension on Monday afternoon, Edmonton Oilers defenceman Justin Schultz had to have had a smile come across his face. With Bogosian inking a long term deal at a $5.1 million cap hit, one would think Oilers general manager Craig MacTavish will have to pony up similar type numbers, if he plans on signing the pending restricted free agent to a lengthy extension.