Monday Mailbag – How does Zach Hyman keep getting better with the Oilers?

Happy Monday, dearest Nation Citizens, and welcome back to another Mailbag that’s geared up to help keep you updated on all things Edmonton Oilers. This week, we’re discussing Connor McDavid’s pursuit of 100 assists, Zach Hyman’s heater, Troy Stecher, and more. If you’ve got a question you’d like to ask, email it to me at baggedmilk@oilersnation.com or hit me up on Twitter at @jsbmbaggedmilk , and I’ll get to you as soon as we can.

I think now that it’s looking more and more like a sure thing, we’ll hear more about it. It really is one of the most impressive things we’ve seen McDavid do in his career and he deserves a lot of praise.

He’s going to get there. After last night’s game against the Senators, he only needs nine. It’s happening.

Just his general ability to finish off chances is what surprises me the most. Yes, he’s scored a lot from right inside of the blue paint, which is impressive in itself, but he has also scored a bunch from outside that area. The fact that he’s seemingly gotten more and more skilled since coming over here is the most surprising part to me.

He’s found a way to fit in alongside Connor McDavid better than anyone else that’s played there not named Leon Draisaitl. If it was so easy to play with Connor, Ty Rattie would be making $8 million per year. He fits and he finishes so much better than I ever could have expected.

They seem reluctant to want to scratch Cody Ceci, so I’ll say no. I think Stetcher deserves more ice time, I’m just not sure if Knoblauch is ever going to take the plunge and actually scratch a player like Ceci for him.

I think Stecher should play more based on the handful of games we’ve been able to watch him, but the coach and team are clearly attached to Cody Ceci so I don’t know that it’ll ever happen unless Knobby wants to go 11/7. He probably doesn’t.

You definitely go with Pickard to start. I think he’s earned that given how solid he’s been this season. I will say that the leash would be short and if it ever got to that point, I wouldn’t be too hesitant to roll the dice on Campbell. He does have very good playoff numbers in his career.

I don’t even want to think about it tbh. I think you’d probably start with Pickard — I know that’s a strange thing to say after he got lit up last night — but I also think the leash would be short before swapping to Campbell.

Overperforming is the Philadelphia Flyers. It’s not even close. If I had to pick a second-place finisher, I’d probably say either the Canucks or the Jets. On the other end of the spectrum, I’d say the Blue Jackets. With the additions they made, I thought they’d be able to make a push up the standings this year. They’ve been brutal again and are in desperate need of a full reset.

Philly is fighting way above their weight class, and it’s honestly impressive to watch. On the flip side, I thought the Devils and Senators would be better than they are. Lots of talent in both of those rosters.

Star Mechanical is Edmonton’s top plumbing and heating company. Our team of skilled professionals is committed to helping with all your plumbing and heating needs, from repairs and maintenance to installation and upgrades. With years of experience and a reputation for quality workmanship, you can trust us your local Star to get the job done. Visit us at starmechanical.ca to schedule an appointment and let us help keep your home running smoothly.