History of Edmonton Oilers in Timeline
The Edmonton Oilers are a professional hockey team based in Edmonton, Alberta, and compete in the NHL's Pacific Division. They play their home games at Rogers Place and are currently led by head coach Kris Knoblauch and general manager Ken Holland. The Oilers have a strong rivalry with their provincial counterparts, the Calgary Flames, known as the "Battle of Alberta".
1952: Edmonton Mercurys Win Gold at Winter Olympics
The Edmonton Mercurys, representing Team Canada, won the gold medal in ice hockey at the 1952 Winter Olympics.
1970: Bobby Orr's Point Record
In the 1970-71 NHL season, Bobby Orr set a record for points by a defenseman with 139, a mark that Paul Coffey narrowly missed surpassing in 1985.
November 1, 1971: Edmonton Oilers Become a Founding WHA Franchise
On November 1, 1971, the Edmonton Oilers officially became one of the twelve founding franchises of the WHA.
1971: Edmonton Oilers Founded
The Edmonton Oilers were founded in 1971 by W. D. "Wild Bill" Hunter and Dr. Chuck Allard.
1972: "Wild Bill" Hunter Coaches the Oilers
"Wild Bill" Hunter, co-founder of the Edmonton Oilers, served as the team's head coach during the 1972-73 season.
1972: First Season in the WHA
The Edmonton Oilers played their first season in 1972 as one of the founding franchises of the World Hockey Association (WHA).
1972: Edmonton Oilers Established
The Edmonton Oilers were established in 1972.
1973: Rod Phillips' Career with the Oilers
In 1973, Rod Phillips began his career with the Edmonton Oilers as their play-by-play announcer.
1974: Hunter's Return as Coach
"Wild Bill" Hunter returned to coach the Edmonton Oilers for the 1974-75 season.
1974: Oilers Move into Rexall Place
The Oilers moved into Rexall Place in 1974, which would serve as their home arena for several decades.
1975: Hunter's Final Coaching Stint
"Wild Bill" Hunter had his final stint as the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers during the 1975-76 season.
1975: Oilers Change Jersey Design
The Oilers modified their jersey design in 1975, opting for a blue base with orange trim. While the logo remained consistent in promotional materials, the jersey featured a distinct logo with a white oil drop on a dark orange background, with the team name written in deep blue. The away jersey incorporated an orange-printed logo.
1976: Glen Sather Begins Coaching Oilers
Glen Sather began his tenure as head coach of the Edmonton Oilers in 1976, leading them to four Stanley Cups during his time with the team.
1976: Oilers Change Ownership
The Edmonton Oilers underwent a change in ownership in 1976 as they were sold to Nelson Skalbania, a real estate tycoon from Vancouver.
1978: Missed WHA Championship
Despite their impressive regular season performance, the Oilers were unable to secure the WHA championship in 1978, falling short in the Avco World Trophy Final.
1978: Wayne Gretzky Joins the Oilers
In a pivotal moment for the franchise, the Edmonton Oilers acquired the young and talented Wayne Gretzky in 1978. This acquisition proved to be a game-changer for the team.
1978: NHL Reclamation Draft
The NHL held a reclamation draft in 1978 to reclaim players who had joined the WHA. This draft presented a challenge for the Oilers as they had to make strategic decisions to protect their key players.
1979: Gretzky's Contract Secures his Future with the Oilers
In 1979, Oilers owner Peter Pocklington leveraged Wayne Gretzky's personal services contract to ensure his place on the team amidst the NHL's reclamation draft, securing a vital asset for the franchise's future.
1979: Edmonton Oilers Join the NHL
In 1979, the Edmonton Oilers joined the National Hockey League (NHL) as part of the merger with the WHA.
1979: Oilers Join NHL, Discard Alternate Logos
In 1979, the Oilers joined the NHL and made the decision to discontinue the use of alternate logos, resulting in their most iconic jersey design. There were, however, minor variations in the logo's appearance across different jersey versions. Furthermore, adjustments were made to the numbering, lettering, and collar during their initial NHL seasons.
1979: Top of the WHA Standings
The Oilers finished the 1978-79 WHA season at the top of the standings with a league-best record, marking a successful period in the team's WHA journey.
1979: Merger and New Beginnings in the NHL
The year 1979 marked a significant transition for the Edmonton Oilers as they, along with three other WHA teams, joined the NHL following a merger agreement, embarking on a new chapter in the team's history.
1980: Jari Kurri Drafted by Oilers
Jari Kurri, the first Finnish player to be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in 1980.
1980: Early Years in the NHL
The Oilers experienced a period of adjustment during their initial years in the NHL, navigating the league's dynamics and building their team for future success.
1981: McDavid Wins Unanimous Hart Trophy
Connor McDavid won the Hart Trophy unanimously in 1981, becoming the second unanimous winner in NHL history alongside Wayne Gretzky.
1981: Paul Lorieau Becomes Oilers Anthem Singer
Paul Lorieau became the Oilers' anthem singer in 1981.
1981: Oilers' Rise and Gretzky's Dominance
The Edmonton Oilers finished second overall in 1981, fueled by Grant Fuhr's rookie record of 23 consecutive wins and Wayne Gretzky's record-breaking 92 goals and 212 points. The team also achieved the unprecedented feat of scoring over 400 goals in a season. However, they faced disappointment with a playoff loss to the Los Angeles Kings.
1982: End of Playoff Streak
In 1982, the Oilers experienced their first first-round playoff elimination since 1982, marking the end of their playoff streak.
1982: Oilers' Playoff Run and Gretzky's Captaincy
In 1982, the Oilers reached the Stanley Cup finals but were defeated by the New York Islanders. Gretzky, Messier, Anderson, and Kurri all achieved over 100 points during the season. Following the season, Gretzky was appointed captain of the team, succeeding Lee Fogolin.
1982: Nike Becomes Oilers' Jersey Supplier
Starting in 1982, Nike became the official supplier of the Oilers' jerseys.
1983: Oilers' First Stanley Cup Victory
The Edmonton Oilers clinched their first Stanley Cup title in 1983, marking a historic moment as the first former WHA team to achieve this feat. They secured the top position in the NHL with a record-breaking 57 wins, fueled by a potent offense that saw Gretzky, Kurri, and Anderson each score over 50 goals. After defeating the New York Islanders in the finals, Mark Messier was recognized as the playoff MVP.
1983: First Stanley Cup Championship
The Edmonton Oilers won their first Stanley Cup championship in 1983. This marked the beginning of their dynasty era.
1984: Second Stanley Cup Victory
In 1984, the Edmonton Oilers achieved their second consecutive Stanley Cup win, solidifying their dominance in the NHL.
1984: Oilers' Second Stanley Cup Triumph and Recognition
In 1984, the Oilers secured their second consecutive Stanley Cup victory, defeating the Philadelphia Flyers. Gretzky became the youngest player in NHL history to score 1,000 points. Paul Coffey had an outstanding playoff performance, setting records for goals, assists, and points by a defenseman. The Oilers' 1984-85 team would later be honored as the greatest NHL team of all time during the league's centennial celebrations.
1985: Oilers' Presidents' Trophy Win and Playoff Disappointment
In 1985, the Oilers achieved the best regular season record in the NHL, winning the inaugural Presidents' Trophy. Gretzky, Kurri, and Anderson all reached the 50-goal mark. However, they were defeated in the playoffs by the Calgary Flames, with a memorable own-goal by Steve Smith during a crucial Game 7.
1985: Oilers' Previous Stanley Cup Victory
In 1985, the Oilers had previously won the Stanley Cup, setting the stage for their rematch against the Philadelphia Flyers in 1986.
1985: Presidents' Trophy Created
The Presidents' Trophy, awarded to the NHL team with the best regular season record, was created in the 1985-86 season.
1986: Oilers' Second Presidents' Trophy and Stanley Cup Victory
In 1986, the Edmonton Oilers secured their second consecutive Presidents' Trophy, demonstrating their continued regular-season dominance. They also reclaimed the Stanley Cup by defeating the Philadelphia Flyers. Rookie goalie Ron Hextall's performance for the Flyers earned him the Conn Smythe Trophy.
1986: Oilers Achieve First 50-Win Season Since 1986-87
In the 2022-23 season, the Oilers recorded their first 50-win season since the 1986-87 season, marking a significant achievement for the team.
1986: Division Title Streak Continues
The Oilers continued their impressive run in 1986, securing another division title, marking their sixth consecutive win.
1987: Oilers' Tradeoffs and Continued Success
In 1987, The Oilers saw the departure of key players, including Paul Coffey and Andy Moog, through trades. Despite these changes, they maintained their strong performance, finishing third overall in the NHL.
1987: Third Stanley Cup Championship
The Edmonton Oilers secured their third Stanley Cup win in 1987, further establishing their legacy as a dominant force in the NHL.
August 9, 1988: The Trade of Wayne Gretzky
In a shocking move on August 9, 1988, the Edmonton Oilers traded Wayne Gretzky, Marty McSorley, and Mike Krushelnyski to the Los Angeles Kings. In exchange, they received $15 million, Jimmy Carson, Martin Gelinas, and three future first-round draft picks. The trade, influenced by owner Peter Pocklington's concerns about Gretzky's potential free agency, caused significant backlash from fans and even political figures.
1988: Oilers' Fourth Stanley Cup Win and Gretzky's Gesture
In 1988, the Oilers achieved their fourth Stanley Cup victory, defeating the Boston Bruins in a memorable series that included a game cancellation due to a power outage. Wayne Gretzky received the Conn Smythe Trophy for his exceptional playoff performance and initiated the tradition of a team photo with the Cup. Grant Fuhr earned the Vezina Trophy as the NHL's top goaltender.
1988: First Stanley Cup Without Gretzky
In 1988, the Oilers won their first Stanley Cup without Wayne Gretzky, defeating the Boston Bruins in a memorable final series. Bill Ranford's outstanding goaltending earned him the Conn Smythe Trophy.
1988: Post-Gretzky Era Begins
The departure of Wayne Gretzky in 1988 had a significant impact on the Oilers, leading to a third-place finish in their division. Mark Messier was appointed as the new captain, and the team faced Gretzky's Los Angeles Kings in the first round of the playoffs, ultimately losing the series.
1989: Kings' First-Round Draft Pick
As part of the Wayne Gretzky trade, the Edmonton Oilers received the Los Angeles Kings' first-round draft pick in 1989.
1989: Nike Ends as Oilers' Jersey Supplier
In 1989, Nike ceased to be the supplier of Oilers jerseys, marking the end of their partnership.
1989: Coaching and Roster Changes
The 1989-90 season saw significant changes for the Oilers. John Muckler replaced Glen Sather as head coach, while Sather remained general manager and became team president. Grant Fuhr's health issues led to Bill Ranford's emergence as a starter. Jimmy Carson was traded to Detroit, and the Oilers finished fifth overall in the NHL.
1990: McDavid Reaches 100 Assists
Connor McDavid became the fourth player since the 1990-91 season to achieve 100 assists in a single NHL season. This accomplishment puts him in the company of hockey legends like Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux, and Bobby Orr.
1990: Unexpected Playoff Success and Conference Final Loss
Despite significant roster changes, the Oilers reached the Campbell Conference Final for the third consecutive season in 1990. They faced the Chicago Blackhawks, who dominated the series and swept the Oilers.
1991: Kings' First-Round Draft Pick
As part of the Wayne Gretzky trade, the Edmonton Oilers received the Los Angeles Kings' first-round draft pick in 1991.
1991: Exodus of Oilers Stars
Before the 1991-92 season, several Oilers stars left the team. Fuhr and Anderson were traded to Toronto, Smith to Chicago, Kurri to Philadelphia, and Messier to the New York Rangers. The Oilers also saw coaching changes, with John Muckler departing and Ted Green taking over. Kevin Lowe became the new captain.
1991: Oilers Face Flames in Playoffs
In 2022, the Oilers faced their provincial rivals, the Calgary Flames, in the playoffs for the first time since 1991.
1992: Missed Playoffs and Development Issues
The departures of star players highlighted weaknesses in the Oilers' development system. They missed the playoffs for the first time in 1992 and faced a rebuilding phase.
1993: Kings' First-Round Draft Pick
As part of the Wayne Gretzky trade, the Edmonton Oilers received the Los Angeles Kings' first-round draft pick in 1993.
1993: First Time Missing Playoffs and Move to Pacific Division
The 1992-93 season marked the first time the Oilers missed the playoffs. In the following season, they were moved to the Western Conference's Pacific Division.
1994: Edmonton Oilers' Playoff Run
In 1994, the Edmonton Oilers became the first eighth-seeded team to reach the Conference Finals since the NHL changed the playoff format in 1994.
1995: Oilers Have Three 100-Point Scorers
During the 2022-23 season, the Oilers had three players achieve 100-point milestones: Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. This was the first time since the 1995-96 season that an NHL team had three players reach this milestone.
1995: Edmonton Oilers' Worst Record
In 1995, the Edmonton Oilers had their worst record since the 1995-1996 season.
1995: Relocation and Renaming of Former WHA Teams
In the years following the merger, three of the four WHA teams that joined the NHL underwent relocation and renaming. This included the Nordiques becoming the Colorado Avalanche in 1995, highlighting the evolving landscape of the league.
1995: Quebec Nordiques Relocate
The Quebec Nordiques relocated in 1995, becoming the Colorado Avalanche.
1996: Oilers Update Team Colors and Jersey Design
In 1996, the Edmonton Oilers updated their team colors to midnight blue and copper with red trim. They also made changes to their jerseys, including removing the shoulder bar and cuffs from the away jersey and adding the "Rigger" alternate logo to the shoulders.
1996: Playoff Return and First-Round Upset
In the 1996-97 season, the Oilers returned to the playoffs, upsetting the Dallas Stars in the first round thanks to Curtis Joseph's strong goaltending. They lost in the next round to the Colorado Avalanche.
1996: Winnipeg Jets Relocate
The Winnipeg Jets relocated in 1996, becoming the Phoenix Coyotes.
1996: Jets Become the Phoenix Coyotes
The Winnipeg Jets, another team that transitioned from the WHA to the NHL, relocated and were renamed the Phoenix Coyotes in 1996, further illustrating the changes within the NHL.
1997: Hartford Whalers Relocate
The Hartford Whalers relocated in 1997, becoming the Carolina Hurricanes.
1997: Whalers Transform into the Hurricanes
The Hartford Whalers, the final team from the WHA merger to undergo a transformation, became the Carolina Hurricanes in 1997, marking the completion of the renaming and relocation process for the former WHA franchises.
March 14, 1998: Edmonton Investors Group Saves the Oilers
Facing potential relocation, the Oilers were saved by the Edmonton Investors Group on March 14, 1998. The group, led by Cal Nichols, purchased the team and ensured its future in Edmonton.
1998: Edmonton Oilers End Playoff Drought
The Edmonton Oilers ended their playoff series drought in 1998, their first since 1998, by defeating the Detroit Red Wings in the first round of the playoffs.
2000: Glen Sather Ends Coaching Oilers
Glen Sather ended his time as head coach for the Edmonton Oilers in 2000.
2001: Oilers Introduce McFarlane-Designed Third Jersey
The Oilers introduced their first alternate third sweater in 2001. It was designed by then-minority owner Todd McFarlane and his production studio. The new uniform was a departure from previous Oilers designs, featuring a flying set of gears with an oil drop on top as the primary logo. The original Oilers logo, copper, and red were absent, and midnight blue was complemented by two shades of silver/gray.
November 22, 2003: Heritage Classic
On November 22, 2003, the Oilers hosted the Heritage Classic, the NHL's first regular-season outdoor game, at Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton. The Oilers lost to the Montreal Canadiens in front of a record-breaking crowd.
2003: Oilers Wear 1980s White Uniform in Heritage Classic
The Oilers wore their 1980s white uniform during the 2003 Heritage Classic, paired with their then-current navy pants.
2004: Edmonton Oilers and the NHL Collective Bargaining Agreement
In 2004, the Edmonton Oilers, struggling with their small-market status, benefited from a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) in the NHL. The CBA introduced a salary cap, forcing teams to operate within a budget, something the Oilers had already been doing.
2005: Post-Lockout Acquisitions
Following the wiped-out 2004-2005 NHL season, the Edmonton Oilers made key acquisitions, bringing in Chris Pronger and Michael Peca, both winners of prestigious NHL awards. This was possible due to the new CBA and favorable currency conversion rates.
2006: Edmonton Oilers in the 2006 Stanley Cup Finals
In 2006, the Edmonton Oilers faced the Carolina Hurricanes in the Stanley Cup Finals. Despite a strong start in Game 1, a 3-0 lead slipped away, compounded by Dwayne Roloson's injury. The Oilers fought back to force a Game 7 but ultimately lost the series, marking Carolina's first Stanley Cup victory.
2006: Last Stanley Cup Finals Appearance
In 2006, the Edmonton Oilers reached the Stanley Cup finals but were unable to secure the championship. This marked their last appearance in the finals.
2006: Oilers Secure First Playoff Series Win Since 2006
In 2006, the Oilers achieved their first playoff series win since 2006, marking a significant milestone for the team.
2006: Post-Stanley Cup Exodus and Trades
The 2006 off-season saw a significant exodus from the Edmonton Oilers. Chris Pronger's trade request led to his departure to Anaheim, while Ryan Smyth was traded to the New York Islanders. Other players left via free agency, drastically changing the team's roster.
2006: Oilers Last Playoff Appearance Before 2017
The Oilers last appearance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs before 2017 was in 2006.
2006: Oilers Advance to Conference Finals for First Time Since 2006
The Oilers made a significant accomplishment in 2022 by advancing to the Western Conference Finals for the first time since 2006.
2007: Drafting Begins
Beginning in 2007, the Edmonton Oilers entered a phase of rebuilding, making numerous first-round selections in the NHL Entry Draft to strengthen their team.
2007: Edmonton Oilers' Season Performance
In the 2007-2008 season, the Edmonton Oilers had a mixed performance, improving in the second half but ultimately missing the playoffs.
2007: Ryan Smyth Leaves the Oilers
Ryan Smyth left the Edmonton Oilers in 2007, only to return in 2011.
2007: Edmonton Oilers Struggles in 2006-2007 Season
The Edmonton Oilers struggled throughout the 2006-2007 season, finishing with their worst record since 1995-1996. Plagued by injuries and illnesses, the team relied heavily on emergency call-ups and ultimately missed the playoffs.
2007: Oilers Switch to Reebok Edge Jerseys
The Oilers switched to Reebok Edge jerseys in 2007, keeping their team colors but changing the style. The new jerseys removed the waistline stripes in favor of vertical piping and featured sleeve stripes only on the inside of the elbow panels. The "Rigger" logo and the McFarlane third jersey were retired.
July 30, 2008: Edmonton Oilers' Ownership and Management Changes
On July 30, 2008, Daryl Katz purchased the Edmonton Oilers. A restructuring of their hockey operations occurred, with Kevin Lowe becoming president and Steve Tambellini taking over Lowe's previous role.
2008: Dwayne Roloson's Record-Breaking Season
During the 2008-2009 season, Dwayne Roloson, the Oilers' goaltender, became the oldest goaltender in NHL history to play 60 games in one season. Despite a bright spot in Roloson's performance, the Oilers failed to qualify for the playoffs.
2008: Oilers Introduce New Alternate Jersey Resembling Dynasty Era
In 2008, the Oilers introduced a new alternate jersey that closely resembled the blue-and-orange away jersey from their dynasty era.
2009: Oilers Make Blue and Orange Primary Colors, Introduce New Home Jersey
In the 2009–10 season, the Oilers made blue and orange their primary team colors again, and the alternate jersey resembling the dynasty era became their main home jersey. The previous midnight blue-and-copper jersey became their alternate.
2009: Pat Quinn Coaches Oilers
Pat Quinn coached the Edmonton Oilers for one year in 2009.
December 14, 2010: Oilers Introduce Octane Cheerleading Squad
The Octane cheerleading squad performed for the first time on December 14, 2010, at a home game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The initial squad consisted of 19 women aged 18 to 29, wearing uniforms resembling the original Oilers jerseys, but with skirts and knee-high boots.
2010: Edmonton Oilers' Rebuilding Phase
In 2010, the Oilers initiated a rebuilding phase. They drafted Taylor Hall as the first overall pick and made several trades and roster changes. Long-time radio announcer Rod Phillips retired after a long and successful career with the team.
2010: New Captain and Young Talent
The 2010-2011 season saw Shawn Horcoff take over as the Oilers' captain. The team welcomed young talents like Taylor Hall, Jordan Eberle, and Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson. Despite the influx of youth, the Oilers continued to struggle, finishing at the bottom of the standings.
February 28, 2011: Dustin Penner Trade
On February 28, 2011, the Edmonton Oilers traded Dustin Penner to the Los Angeles Kings for Colten Teubert, a first-round draft pick in 2011, and a conditional third-round pick in 2012.
June 24, 2011: Oilers Unveil New White Road Jerseys
On June 24, 2011, the Oilers presented their new white road jerseys at the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, where they selected Ryan Nugent-Hopkins first overall. The midnight blue jersey continued to be used as the third jersey before being discontinued in 2012.
2011: Ryan Smyth Returns to the Oilers
After leaving in 2007, Ryan Smyth returned to the Oilers in 2011.
2011: New Coach and Free Agent Signing
In 2011, Ralph Krueger was appointed as the Oilers' head coach. Edmonton secured free agent defenseman Justin Schultz, adding a promising player to their roster.
2011: Paul Lorieau Ends Tenure as Oilers Anthem Singer
Paul Lorieau's tenure as the Oilers' anthem singer ended in 2011.
May 17, 2012: Coaching Change and Draft
On May 17, 2012, the Edmonton Oilers announced that head coach Tom Renney's contract would not be renewed. The following month, the Oilers selected Nail Yakupov as the first overall pick in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.
October 11, 2012: NHL Lockout Delays Season Start
The start of the 2012-13 NHL season was delayed from its original date of October 11, 2012, due to a lockout imposed by the NHL franchise owners following the expiration of the collective bargaining agreement.
2012: Draft Picks and Off-Season Moves
In 2012, the Edmonton Oilers secured the first overall pick in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, using it to select Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. The team made several off-season moves, reacquiring Ryan Smyth and adding grit and toughness to their lineup. However, the Oilers still fell short of playoff qualification.
2012: Oilers Discontinue Midnight Blue Third Jersey
The Oilers discontinued their midnight blue third jersey in 2012.
January 13, 2013: Training Camps Open After Lockout
After a new labor agreement was reached, NHL training camps opened on January 13, 2013, paving the way for a shortened 48-game season.
December 3, 2013: Rogers Place Naming Rights Announced
On December 3, 2013, Rogers Communications secured the naming rights for Edmonton's new arena, which would be called Rogers Place.
2013: Craig MacTavish Takes Over as General Manager
In 2013, Steve Tambellini was let go as General Manager and replaced with Craig MacTavish, who made significant changes to the team's roster and coaching staff.
2013: Robert Clark Becomes Oilers Anthem Singer
Robert Clark, an opera singer from Sherwood Park, became the Oilers' anthem singer in 2013. During playoff games, he sings the anthems from within the crowd and is introduced by public address announcer Al Stafford as "The singing voice of your Edmonton Oilers."
March 5, 2014: Ales Hemsky Traded to Ottawa Senators
On March 5, 2014, Ales Hemsky was traded from the Edmonton Oilers to the Ottawa Senators, marking the departure of another member of the 2006 Stanley Cup finalists.
December 15, 2014: Dallas Eakins Fired as Head Coach
On December 15, 2014, Dallas Eakins was fired as head coach of the Edmonton Oilers after a disappointing start to the season.
2014: Oilers Endure Worst Season in Franchise History
The 2014 season marked the Oilers' worst performance as an NHL team.
January 29, 2015: Oilers Relocate AHL Franchise to Bakersfield
The Oilers announced the relocation of their American Hockey League (AHL) franchise from Oklahoma City to Bakersfield, California, on January 29, 2015. This move established a new AHL team known as the Bakersfield Condors.
2015: Oilers Start Season Without Captain
For the first time since joining the NHL in 1979, the Oilers opted to start the 2015-16 season without a designated team captain.
2015: Peter Chiarelli Becomes General Manager and Todd McLellan Becomes Head Coach
In 2015, Peter Chiarelli was appointed as general manager and president of hockey operations for the Oilers. One of his first actions was to hire Todd McLellan as the team's new head coach.
2015: Oilers Win Draft Lottery and Select Connor McDavid
In 2015, the Oilers won the draft lottery, earning the right to pick first overall. They used this pick to select Connor McDavid, a highly touted prospect.
2015: Oilers Introduce WHA-Inspired Alternate Jersey
In the 2015–16 season, the team introduced a new alternate jersey inspired by their original WHA design, featuring orange as a primary color. This design was well-received by fans, who started wearing it to games in large numbers, creating a "Surge of Orange" phenomenon similar to the "C of Red" in Calgary and the "Whiteout" in Winnipeg.
2015: Oilers prepare to leave Rexall Place
The Oilers prepared to leave Rexall Place, their home arena since 1974, at the conclusion of the 2015 season.
February 27, 2016: Oilers Trade Justin Schultz to Penguins
On February 27, 2016, the Edmonton Oilers traded struggling defenseman Justin Schultz to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for a third-round draft pick.
August 2016: Oilers Discontinue Octane Cheerleading Squad, Introduce Oilers Orange and Blue Ice Crew
The Oilers Entertainment Group (OEG) announced the discontinuation of the Octane cheerleading squad in August 2016. They stated that the franchise was "looking for a new direction related to the fan experience" as they prepared to move from Rexall Place to Rogers Place for the 2016–17 season. The Group also held auditions for a new co-ed group of "brand ambassadors" called the Oilers Orange and Blue Ice Crew for the upcoming season.
September 26, 2016: Oilers Introduce Mascot Hunter the Canadian Lynx
The Oilers introduced their mascot, a Canadian lynx named Hunter, on September 26, 2016. The Canadian lynx was chosen because Alberta is its largest habitat in terms of population and because it received the most votes. The name pays tribute to the original Oilers owner, William "Wild Bill" Hunter. Hunter wears the number 72 on his jersey, representing the year the Oilers were established (1972). He entertains the crowds with a portable drum, encouraging them to chant "Let's Go Oilers!" along with a rhythmic beat.
2016: Oilers Regress After Surprising Season
Despite high expectations following a surprising performance in the 2016-17 season, the Oilers regressed in the 2017-18 season, failing to make the playoffs.
2016: Rogers Place Opens
In 2016, the Edmonton Oilers began playing their home games at the newly opened Rogers Place.
2016: Edmonton Oilers Move to Rogers Place
In 2016, the Edmonton Oilers moved into their new home arena, Rogers Place.
2016: Oilers Wear Orange Alternate Jerseys in Heritage Classic
The Oilers wore their orange alternate jerseys during the 2016 Heritage Classic.
March 28, 2017: Oilers End Playoff Drought
On March 28, 2017, the Edmonton Oilers defeated the Los Angeles Kings 2-1 to secure a playoff berth, ending an 11-year drought.
2017: Oilers Honored as Greatest NHL Team
In 2017, during the NHL's centennial celebrations, the Edmonton Oilers' 1984-85 team was voted the greatest NHL team of all time. This recognition cemented their legacy as one of the most dominant and talented teams in NHL history.
2017: Oilers Trade Eberle and Sign McDavid and Draisaitl
In the 2017 offseason, the Oilers traded Jordan Eberle to the New York Islanders in exchange for Ryan Strome. The team also signed Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl to lucrative eight-year contracts.
2017: Oilers Secure First 40-Win Season Since 2017
The Oilers achieved a significant milestone in the 2021-22 season, marking their first 40-win season since 2017.
2017: Orange Jersey Becomes Oilers' Home Design with Adidas Switch
With the switch to Adidas jerseys for the 2017–18 season, the orange jersey became the Oilers' primary home design. The 1980s template was retained, while midnight blue was reintroduced as an accent color.
2018: Oilers Wear Classic Blue Jerseys for 40th Anniversary Games
To commemorate their 40th anniversary in the NHL, the Oilers wore their classic 1980s blue jerseys for four home games in the 2018–19 season. These games were against their original Smythe Division rivals: Los Angeles Kings, Calgary Flames, Winnipeg Jets, and Vancouver Canucks.
January 22, 2019: Oilers Fire Chiarelli, Appoint Gretzky as Interim GM
On January 22, 2019, the Oilers dismissed Peter Chiarelli from his position as president and general manager. Keith Gretzky was subsequently appointed as the interim general manager.
May 7, 2019: Ken Holland Takes Over as General Manager
On May 7, 2019, Ken Holland became the general manager of the Edmonton Oilers.
2019: Oilers Introduce Midnight Blue Alternate Jersey
Before the 2019–20 season, the Oilers unveiled a new midnight blue alternate jersey with minimal striping and no white elements.
2019: Oilers Appoint Holland as GM and Tippett as Coach
In 2019, the Oilers hired Ken Holland as general manager and Dave Tippett as the head coach, marking a new chapter for the team.
March 12, 2020: Oilers Season Suspended Due to COVID-19 Pandemic
On March 12, 2020, the Oilers season was put on hold due to the global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
2020: Oilers Finish Second in North Division, Swept by Jets in Playoffs
In the 2020-21 season, the Oilers finished second in the North Division but were swept by the Winnipeg Jets in the first round of the playoffs.
2020: Oilers Release "Reverse Retro" Alternate Uniform
In the 2020–21 season, the Oilers released a "Reverse Retro" alternate uniform, reviving the 1980s white jersey with the orange and blue colors switched, except for the team crest.
2021: New Oilers Broadcast Team
In 2021, Jack Michaels, Louie DeBrusk, and Gene Principe became the primary broadcast team for Edmonton Oilers television broadcasts.
2021: Oilers Achieve First 40-Win Season Since 2017
The Oilers achieved their first 40-win season since 2017 during the 2021-22 season, showcasing a significant improvement in their performance.
2021: Oilers Wear Midnight Blue Alternates in Home Playoff Games
The Oilers wore their midnight blue alternate jerseys for home playoff games during the 2021 and 2022 Stanley Cup playoffs.
September 7, 2022: Oilers Establish Club Hall of Fame, Announce Inaugural Class
The Oilers announced the establishment of their own club Hall of Fame on September 7, 2022. Inductees are selected based on their contributions to the team since its founding in 1972. The inaugural Class of 2022 included Al Hamilton, Wayne Gretzky, Jari Kurri, Grant Fuhr, Paul Coffey, Mark Messier, Glenn Anderson, Kevin Lowe, Glen Sather, and Rod Phillips, all of whom already had their banners raised to the rafters. Lee Fogolin and Ryan Smyth were later announced as inductees and officially joined on November 3 during a pre-game ceremony before the Oilers played the New Jersey Devils at Rogers Place.
2022: Oilers Face Kings in Playoffs for Second Consecutive Year
In 2022, the Oilers played against the Los Angeles Kings in the playoffs for the second consecutive year.
2022: Oilers Reach Western Conference Finals
In 2022, the Oilers reached the Western Conference Finals for the first time since 2006, demonstrating their strong performance throughout the season.
2022: Oilers Bring Back 1980s Jerseys, Introduce Second "Reverse Retro" Uniform
The Oilers brought back their blue and white jerseys from the 1980s at the beginning of the 2022–23 season, while keeping their midnight blue alternate jerseys. They also unveiled a second "Reverse Retro" uniform during the season based on their 2001–2007 alternate jersey, but with orange replacing silver in the trim and an orange oil drop matching the standard logo.
2022: Oilers Wear Midnight Blue Alternates in Home Playoff Games
The Oilers wore their midnight blue alternate jerseys for home playoff games during the 2021 and 2022 Stanley Cup playoffs.
September 20, 2023: Oilers Announce 2023 Hall of Fame Inductees
On September 20, 2023, the Edmonton Oilers announced that Charlie Huddy and former team captain Doug Weight would be inducted into the Oilers Hall of Fame.
November 12, 2023: Kris Knoblauch Becomes Head Coach
On November 12, 2023, Kris Knoblauch was named the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers.
December 21, 2023: Oilers Embark on 16-Game Win Streak
Starting on December 21, 2023, the Oilers embarked on an impressive 16-game win streak, showcasing their dominance during this period.
2023: Oilers Unveil Special Jerseys for Heritage Classic
For the 2023 Heritage Classic, the Oilers wore specially designed blue uniforms inspired by Team Canada's 1952 Winter Olympics gold medal-winning team, which was represented by the Edmonton Mercurys. The design featured an enlarged oil drop surrounding a blue number, the full team name in blue letters at the bottom within a white ribbon, and orange and cream stripes. The back had cream letters with orange accents. They also wore brown pants and gloves to evoke early 20th-century hockey equipment.
February 6, 2024: Oilers' Win Streak Ends
On February 6, 2024, the Oilers' impressive 16-game win streak came to an end.
May 6, 2024: Information Updated
The information was updated on May 6, 2024.
2024: Oilers Monday Night Games on Prime Video
Beginning in the 2024-25 season, Rogers will sublicense Monday night NHL games, including those involving the Oilers, exclusively to Prime Video.
