19. Edmonton Oilers

Record: 18-15-1, +13
Last Week: 21st (+2)
Mike’s Rank: 17th
Scott’s Rank: 21st

Mike: It has always seemed at least somewhat inevitable that the Oilers would rebound and shoot back up the standings, but … even then, I’m not sure if they’re as good as last year. Even with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl having their best seasons ever, the Oilers couldn’t get out of the second round of the playoffs. It was Colorado in 2022 and Vegas in 2023. Will it be Dallas in 2024? Either way, losing to the eventual champs isn’t a good enough excuse for a team this skilled.

No player had a dreadful tournament by any means, but like any time Canada loses out, the topic of who could have played will continue to dominate the discourse. Jagger Firkus was cut after a rough camp in Oakville but was later added as a reserve player. Given he’s one of the top players in the CHL, they had to have a found room for him somewhere. Denver Barkey did everything Letang used Easton Cowan for – energy, blocking shots, killing penalties – in camp, but was better. Both of those players would have made a big impact on Canada.

After giving a 2-0 lead to the Czechs, Canada was the much better team on Tuesday. They dominated possession and kept Hrabal busy. But Canada’s inability to capitalize on chances – today, and far too often in the past couple games – left everyone wondering, “What if?” They needed a finisher and didn’t get it.

A lack of effective lineup juggling. Missed opportunities. An overworked goaltender. Missing talent. The stars weren’t playing like stars. All of this combined made for a well-deserved early exit.