Locked On Oilers - Daily Podcast On The Edmonton Oilers

Edmonton Oilers stage an electrifying comeback to stun the San Jose Sharks with late-game heroics from Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evan Bouchard. Can Edmonton’s top-heavy roster fuel a deep playoff push, or will their reliance on star power catch up with them down the stretch?
Nick Zararis breaks down the Oilers’ dramatic 4-3 overtime victory, analyzing critical mistakes that put Edmonton in a three-goal hole, the unparalleled execution at 6-on-5, and the unsustainable workload on the team’s big guns. Key topics include defensive lapses by Jake Walman, the impact of young Sharks talent like Macklin Celebrini and Michael Misa, and the pressing need for depth ahead of the NHL trade deadline. Edmonton’s bench management and vulnerability at 5-on-5 raise pivotal questions as the Pacific Division race heats up. Don’t miss this passionate breakdown of the Oilers’ latest triumph and their roadmap to Stanley Cup contention.
05:56 Oilers' Late Rally Masterclass
09:10 Oilers Mistakes and Super Bowl
11:26 "Oilers Unsustainable Heavy Reliance"
14:55 Oilers' Early Mistakes Costly
19:16 "Streamline Business Communication with Quo"
20:36 "Quo: Top Business Phone System"
24:46 "Oilers' Challenges and Trade Deadline"
28:05 "Top Six Needs Support"
GUTSY WIN: Oilers Rally late as McDavid, Draisaitl, Bouchard and Hyman go nuclear
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com

 
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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Edmonton Oilers face a congested NHL trade market with playoff dreams on the line—can they land the big fish or will salary cap realities force a different approach? Artemi Panarin, Vincent Trocheck, and Jonathan Marchessault headline the league’s most tantalizing trade targets, but tough decisions loom as Nick Zararis breaks down the cost, roster implications, and cap constraints.
Key insights include the Oilers’ pursuit of upside plays like Robert Thomas and Shane Wright, realistic moves for Blake Coleman, Charlie Coyle, and Boone Jenner, plus why Patrick Laine and Evander Kane aren’t on the radar. Nick Zararis analyzes how additions could reshape the depth chart, impact Conor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl’s roles, and even serve as McDavid insurance. Will Edmonton secure the reinforcements needed for a serious Stanley Cup run, or are blue-chip trades out of reach this season?
04:21 Panarin Trade Challenges and Fit
08:54 Oilers' Cap Dilemma and Decisions
11:51 NHL Trade Deadline Outcomes
13:46 "Robert Thomas Trade Pipe Dream"
19:59 "Managing Finances with Rocket Money"
22:46 "Patrick Laine: Enigmatic Talent"
25:19 Kane to LA, Tuck's Future
27:49 "Oilers' Potential Trade Targets"
Trade Dreams: Why the Oilers need to think smart, not big ahead of the trade deadline
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com

 
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Quo
Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to
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Indeed
Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/lockedon right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.
Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.
FanDuel
If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you win. Make it count — because after the Super Bowl, the season is over. Last call for football on FanDuel, an Official Sportsbook Partner of Super Bowl Sixty. 
Rocket Money
Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money.
Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDONtoday.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Evan Bouchard is redefining what it means to be an elite NHL defenseman—and the rest of the league is finally taking notice. Are critics underestimating his impact on the Edmonton Oilers’ Stanley Cup chances?
Nick Zararis spotlights Bouchard’s evolution into one of hockey’s top blueliners, showcasing his elite puck-moving skills, anticipation, and chemistry with superstars like Connor McDavid. The discussion pits Bouchard against rivals Cale Makar, Adam Fox, and Quinn Hughes, using advanced stats to make the case for Edmonton’s power play catalyst. With insights into team composition, defensive metrics, and matchup nuances, Nick Zararis tackles fan skepticism and traditionalist mindsets about “offense-first” defensemen. Plus, get inside the Oilers’ race for playoff dominance and why Bouchard’s presence could be the X-factor Edmonton needs.
 
 
 
 
04:14 Offense-First Defensemen: Pros & Cons
08:48 "Evan Bouchard: Underrated Star"
10:36 "Quo: Never Miss Opportunities"
14:29 Oilers' Elite Playmaker Analysis
20:43 "Seahawks, FanDuel, Sports Talk"
21:57 "Evan Bouchard's Underrated Value"
26:33 "Oilers' Depth and Bouchard Shine"
Underrated: Why Evan Bouchard elevates the Oilers and deserves more respect
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com

 
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Quo
Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to
http://Quo.com/lockedonnhl
Indeed
Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/lockedon right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.
Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.
FanDuel
If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you win. Make it count — because after the Super Bowl, the season is over. Last call for football on FanDuel, an Official Sportsbook Partner of Super Bowl Sixty. 
Rocket Money
Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money.
Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDONtoday.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Edmonton Oilers surge past Anaheim Ducks in a four-point division clash, powered by Mattias Ekholm’s surprise hat trick and Zach Hyman’s relentless net-front presence. Can their bend-but-don’t-break style and opportunistic scoring carry them into the postseason spotlight?
Nick Zararis dissects the Oilers' evolving identity, from absorbing pressure to unleashing explosive counterattacks. Key insights include Zach Hyman’s career-best ice time and scoring efficiency, the latest on organizational depth showcased by Josh Samanski's NHL debut, and the impact of AHL call-ups on Edmonton’s playoff ambitions. The episode unpacks defensive performances, special teams contributions, roster auditions ahead of the trade deadline, and why depth players might shape the Oilers’ lineup for the stretch run. Is Edmonton finally building the foundation for sustained success?
 
 
 
00:00 Oilers' Victory & Season Highlights
04:56 Hyman's Impactful Net-Front Play
06:52 Oilers Secure Crucial Four-Point Win
12:07 Hockey Obsession and Player Insights
15:43 McDavid's Impact: Stats Breakdown
17:53 Heart Over Size: Zach Hyman
20:46 "Quo: Smarter Business Communication"
24:22 "Assessing Howard's Role Evolution"
27:48 "Opportunities and Trade Challenges"
HISTORY: Mattias Ekholm records first career hat trick | Oilers roll 7-4 over Ducks
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com

 
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Quo
Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to
http://Quo.com/lockedonnhl
Indeed
Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/lockedon right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.
Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.
FanDuel
If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you win. Make it count — because after the Super Bowl, the season is over. Last call for football on FanDuel, an Official Sportsbook Partner of Super Bowl Sixty. 
Rocket Money
Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money.
Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDONtoday.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Are the Edmonton Oilers’ struggles truly a reflection of Matthias Ekholm’s game, or is a deeper team issue brewing? Nick Zararis breaks down why the perception of Ekholm’s decline after his knee injury doesn't match the underlying data—and why the Oilers' current woes point to systemic problems rather than individual underperformance.
Key discussion points include the real impact of Ekholm’s skating metrics, Evan Bouchard’s partnership, and the Oilers’ shifting offensive and defensive effectiveness at even strength. Nick Zararis analyzes lagging goal shares, dominant power play contributions, Chris Knobloch’s lineup decisions, and growing concerns about the bottom six forwards. With Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Zach Hyman carrying heavy burdens, can Edmonton find the right balance to fuel a deep run, or will structural issues derail their championship aspirations?
04:53 "Ekholm's Skating Speed Analysis"
09:09 "Team Challenges and Finances"
11:20 Oilers: Transition Play Evaluation
16:21 Oilers' Offense-First Strategy Analysis
18:35 Oilers’ Offensive and Defensive Struggles
20:20 "Boost Hiring with Sponsored Jobs"
26:09 Oilers' Playoff Struggles Analyzed
27:56 Oilers' Struggles and Future Moves
 
EVALUATION: Are the Oilers facing a Mattias Ekholm problem? | What the numbers say
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonoilers.supercast.com

 
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Quo
Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to
http://Quo.com/lockedonnhl
Indeed
Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/lockedon right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.
Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.
FanDuel
If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you win. Make it count — because after the Super Bowl, the season is over. Last call for football on FanDuel, an Official Sportsbook Partner of Super Bowl Sixty. 
Rocket Money
Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money.
Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDONtoday.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)
 
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