Full History Of Edmonton Oilers In Timeline From 1919

1919: Dr. Charles A. "Chuck" Allard Born

In 1919, Dr. Charles A. "Chuck" Allard was born, who would later become one of the founders of the Edmonton Oilers.

1920: "Wild Bill" Hunter Born

In 1920, "Wild Bill" Hunter was born, who would later become one of the founders of the Edmonton Oilers.

1967: Expansion

Since the league's 1967 expansion, only the Montreal Canadiens have won the Stanley Cup more times than the Oilers.

1970: Bobby Orr

In 1985-86, Paul Coffey just missed setting a new record for points by a defenceman with 138, with Bobby Orr having scored 139 in 1970-71.

November 1, 1971: Edmonton Oilers become a WHA franchise

On November 1, 1971, the Edmonton Oilers became one of the 12 founding WHA franchises with "Wild Bill" Hunter and Dr. Charles A. "Chuck" Allard as the original owners.

1971: Edmonton Oilers Founded

In 1971, W. D. "Wild Bill" Hunter and Dr. Chuck Allard founded the Edmonton Oilers.

1972: Oilers' establishment year referenced by Hunter's jersey number

Hunter, the Edmonton Oilers mascot, wears the number 72 on his jersey, referencing the year the Oilers were established, which was in 1972.

1972: Original Oilers logo designed

In 1972, James Harvey designed the original Oilers logo with blue and orange colors, with orange being dominant. Player names were initially replaced with 'ALBERTA' on the uniforms.

1972: Team name finalized

In early 1972, after initially being planned as the "Edmonton Oil Kings", Hunter chose to name the team the "Oilers".

1972: Oilers first season in WHA

In the 1972-73 season, the Edmonton Oilers played their first season as one of the founding franchises of the World Hockey Association (WHA).

1972: Hall of Fame Contributions

Inductees into the Edmonton Oilers Hall of Fame are selected based on their contributions or services to the team since its founding in 1972.

1973: Rod Phillips begins play-by-play announcer role.

In 1973, Rod Phillips began his role as the Oilers' play-by-play announcer.

1974: Hunter as head coach

During the 1974-75 season, Hunter served as head coach of the Oilers.

1974: Jersey design changed to blue base with orange trim

In the 1974–75 season, the Oilers' jersey design was changed to a blue base with orange trim. The home jersey featured a white oil drop logo on a dark orange field, while the away jersey had an orange logo with a blue oil drop.

1975: Hunter as head coach

During the 1975-76 season, Hunter served as head coach of the Oilers.

1976: Glen Sather acquired

In 1976, Glen Sather was acquired by the Oilers. He was named player-coach late in the season and moved to the bench full-time after the season.

1976: Hunter and Allard sell the franchise

In 1976, Hunter and Allard sold the Edmonton Oilers franchise to Nelson Skalbania, who later made Peter Pocklington a partner.

1978: Wayne Gretzky Acquired

In 1978, Peter Pocklington acquired underage player Wayne Gretzky, as well as Eddie Mio and Peter Driscoll, for cash, from Skalbania's recently folded Indianapolis Racers.

1978: Gretzky's first and only WHA season

In 1978-79, Wayne Gretzky played his first and only season in the WHA.

1978: Jacques Plante inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

Jacques Plante, who briefly played for the Edmonton Oilers in the WHA, was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1978. Plante led the Montreal Canadiens to six Stanley Cups through the 1950s and early 1960s.

1978: Reclamation draft

The Oilers lost most of their players from 1978-79 when the NHL held a reclamation draft of players who had bolted to the upstart league as they were allowed to protect two goaltenders and two skaters.

1979: Pocklington forces NHL to admit Oilers and keep Gretzky

In 1979, Peter Pocklington had signed Wayne Gretzky to a 21-year personal services contract and used the contract to force the NHL to admit the Oilers and allow them to keep Gretzky.

1979: Oilers join the NHL

In 1979, the Edmonton Oilers joined the National Hockey League (NHL) as one of four franchises absorbed through the NHL–WHA merger.

1979: Oilers finish first in WHA standings

In the 1978-79 season, his first and only WHA season, the Edmonton Oilers finished first in the WHA standings, posting a league-best 48–30–2 record.

1979: Franchise moves to NHL

In the 2025-26 season the Edmonton Oilers unveiled a new alternate uniform, featuring a right shoulder roundel patch containing the year of the franchise's move to the NHL, which was 1979.

1980: NHL records set by Gretzky

In 1980-81, Wayne Gretzky set new NHL records for assists (109) and points (164).

1981: Division Titles

From 1981-82, the Edmonton Oilers won six straight division titles.

1981: Grant Fuhr record

In 1981-82, Grant Fuhr set a rookie record by going undefeated in 23 straight games.

1981: McDavid wins Hart Trophy

In the 2020-21 season, Connor McDavid earned his second Hart Trophy unanimously, joining Wayne Gretzky in 1981-82 as the only unanimous winners in NHL history.

1982: Nike provides Oilers' sweaters

From 1982 to 1989, Nike provided the sweaters for the Edmonton Oilers.

1982: Oilers eliminated in first round of playoffs

In 1982, the Oilers were eliminated from the playoffs in the first round, marking a significant setback for the team.

1982: Oilers reach Stanley Cup Final

In 1982-83, the Edmonton Oilers advanced to the Stanley Cup Final before getting swept by the New York Islanders.

1982: Norm Ullman inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

Norm Ullman, who played for the Edmonton Oilers in the WHA, was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1982. Ullman played 20 years for the Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs putting up 1,229 points.

1983: Stanley Cup win

In 1983-84, the Edmonton Oilers won the Stanley Cup.

1983: Oilers win first Stanley Cup

In 1983-84, the Edmonton Oilers won their first Stanley Cup, becoming the first former WHA team to do so. Mark Messier was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.

1984: Oilers win second Stanley Cup

In 1984-85, the Edmonton Oilers won the Stanley Cup for the second year in a row. Wayne Gretzky won the Conn Smythe Trophy.

1984: Stanley Cup win

In 1984-85, the Edmonton Oilers won the Stanley Cup.

1985: Oilers win inaugural Presidents' Trophy

During the 1985–86 season, the Edmonton Oilers won the inaugural Presidents' Trophy, the trophy given to the team with the best regular season record.

1985: Stanley Cup Final

In 1986-87, Edmonton returned to the Stanley Cup Final and faced the same opponent as they had in 1985, the Philadelphia Flyers. Hextall won the Conn Smythe Trophy.

1986: Flames defeat Oilers in division round

In 1986, the Calgary Flames defeated the Edmonton Oilers in the division round of the playoffs during the Battle of Alberta rivalry.

1986: Stanley Cup win

In 1986-87, the Edmonton Oilers won the Stanley Cup.

1986: Oilers win second straight Presidents' Trophy

In the 1986-87 season, the Edmonton Oilers captured their second straight Presidents' Trophy with 50 wins and 106 points.

1986: Oilers record their first 50-win season since 1986-87

In the 2022-23 season, the Oilers achieved their first 50-win season since 1986-87, finishing with a 50-23-9 record.

1987: Cam Talbot breaks single-season wins record

During the 2016-2017 season, Cam Talbot set a new franchise record for the Edmonton Oilers, winning 42 games. This surpassed the previous record of 40 games, which was set by Grant Fuhr during the 1987-88 season.

1987: The Boys on the Bus

In 1987, the team was the subject of Bob McKeown's documentary film "The Boys on the Bus".

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1987: Stanley Cup win and division title

In 1987-88, the Edmonton Oilers won the Stanley Cup and won their sixth straight division title.

1987: Gretzky Re-negotiates Contract

In the summer of 1987, Gretzky converted his personal-services contract with Pocklington into a standard five-year player's contract with the Oilers, including an option to declare himself an unrestricted free agent after the 1988–89 season.

August 9, 1988: Gretzky Traded to Los Angeles Kings

On August 9, 1988, Wayne Gretzky, along with Marty McSorley and Mike Krushelnyski, were traded to the Los Angeles Kings for US$15 million, Jimmy Carson, Martin Gelinas, and the Kings' first-round draft picks in 1989, 1991, and 1993.

1988: Oilers finish third in division after Gretzky trade

Following the trade of Gretzky in 1988, the Oilers finished third in their division.

1988: Oilers win Stanley Cup despite changes

In 1988, Andy Moog was traded to the Boston Bruins for Bill Ranford. Despite the changes, the Oilers placed third overall in the NHL. The Oilers swept the Boston Bruins in four games to win the Stanley Cup. Gretzky won the Conn Smythe Trophy, and Fuhr was awarded the Vezina Trophy.

1988: Oilers Rematch Against Bruins in Stanley Cup Final

The Oilers earned a rematch of the 1988 Stanley Cup Final with Boston. The series is remembered for game 1, still the longest Stanley Cup Final game played in the modern NHL, and the Oilers defeated the Bruins in five games and won their first Cup without Gretzky. Bill Ranford won the Conn Smythe Trophy.

1989: Nike provides Oilers' sweaters

From 1982 to 1989, Nike provided the sweaters for the Edmonton Oilers.

1989: Muckler replaces Sather as head coach, Fuhr sidelined with injuries, Carson traded

In 1989, John Muckler replaced Sather as head coach. Grant Fuhr suffered a severe case of appendicitis and a shoulder injury. Jimmy Carson was traded to Detroit with Kevin McClelland in exchange for Petr Klima, Adam Graves, Joe Murphy and Jeff Sharples.

1989: Stanley Cup win

In 1989-90, the Edmonton Oilers won the Stanley Cup.

1990: Kurri leaves, Fuhr suspended, Oilers reach conference finals

Before the 1990–91 season, Jari Kurri chose to play with Devils Milano, and Grant Fuhr was suspended for 60 games for drug abuse. The Oilers finished third in the Smythe Division and lost in the conference finals to the Minnesota North Stars.

1990: Oilers Produce Comparable Season to 1990-91

Despite the number of changes, the Oilers produced a comparable season to 1990–91, finishing third in the Smythe Division with 36 wins and 82 points.

1990: McDavid records 100 assists

During the 2023-24 season, Connor McDavid became the fourth player since 1990-91 to record 100 assists in a single NHL season.

1991: Oilers trade key players and lose head coach

Before the 1991–92 season, Fuhr, Anderson, and Smith were traded, Kurri was traded, Huddy was claimed in the expansion draft, and Messier was traded. John Muckler left to coach the Buffalo Sabres and Ted Green replaced Muckler as head coach.

1991: Dr. Charles A. "Chuck" Allard Death

In 1991, Dr. Charles A. "Chuck" Allard passed away. He was one of the founders of the Edmonton Oilers.

1991: Oilers played against Calgary Flames

The Oilers faced their provincial rival, the Calgary Flames for the first time since 1991.

1992: Oilers' development system deficiencies exposed

In 1992, the departures of the stars from the 1980s exposed serious deficiencies in the Oilers' development system.

1993: Oilers Miss Playoffs for First Time

In 1992-93, the Edmonton Oilers missed the playoffs for the first time as an NHL team. In the 1993-94 season, the Oilers were placed into the Western Conference's Pacific Division.

1994: Oilers become first eighth-seeded team to reach conference final

In 2006, the Oilers became the first eighth-seeded team to reach a conference final since the NHL changed the playoff format in 1994.

1995: Other Canadian teams move

In 1995, Quebec moved.

1995: Nordiques Become Avalanche

In 1995, The Quebec Nordiques relocated and became the Colorado Avalanche.

1995: Three players reach 100-point milestone

In the 2022-23 season, Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins became the first trio since the 1995-96 NHL season to achieve 100 points each on the same team.

1996: Jets Become Coyotes

In 1996, The Winnipeg Jets relocated and became the Phoenix Coyotes.

1996: Other Canadian teams move

In 1996, Winnipeg moved.

1996: Team colors changed to midnight blue and copper

In 1996, the Oilers changed their team colors to midnight blue and copper with red trim. The away jersey had its shoulder yoke and cuffs removed, and the "Rigger" alternate logo was added to the shoulders.

1996: Oilers make playoffs

In 1996, the Oilers made the playoffs for the first time in five years, thanks to stellar goaltending by Curtis Joseph.

1997: Glen Sather inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

Glen Sather was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1997. Sather was a head coach for the Edmonton Oilers from 1976 to 2000, leading them to four Stanley Cups.

1997: Oilers Upset Dallas Stars in Playoffs

In 1996-97, the Oilers made the playoffs for the first time in five years. In 1997, they upset the Dallas Stars in the first round, winning game seven in overtime. However, they were defeated by the Colorado Avalanche in the next round.

1997: Other Canadian teams move

In 1997, Hartford moved.

1997: Whalers Become Hurricanes

In 1997, The Hartford Whalers relocated and became the Carolina Hurricanes.

March 14, 1998: Edmonton Investors Group Buys Oilers

On March 14, 1998, the Edmonton Investors Group agreed to pay $70 million to buy the Oilers, preventing the team from moving. Cal Nichols spearheaded the EIG, committing to retain NHL hockey in Edmonton.

1998: Oilers win first playoff series since 1998

In the first round of the playoffs in 2006, the Oilers pulled off a six-game upset against the Detroit Red Wings, marking their first playoff series win since 1998.

1999: Wayne Gretzky inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

Wayne Gretzky was immediately inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1999, after retiring the same year. Gretzky played 10 seasons with the Edmonton Oilers and captained them to their first four Stanley Cup championships.

2001: Jari Kurri inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

In 2001, Jari Kurri became the first Finnish player to be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Kurri played 10 seasons with the Edmonton Oilers, winning all five of their Stanley Cups.

2001: Oilers introduce third sweater designed by Todd McFarlane

In 2001, the Oilers introduced their first alternate third sweater, designed by Todd McFarlane and his production studio. The design featured midnight blue, two shades of silver/grey, and a logo with flying gears and an oil drop, while omitting the original Oilers logo, copper, and red.

2002: "Wild Bill" Hunter Death

In 2002, "Wild Bill" Hunter passed away. He was one of the founders of the Edmonton Oilers.

2002: Roger Neilson inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

Roger Neilson who briefly worked for the Edmonton Oilers as a video analyst during the 1984 Stanley Cup playoffs was inducted in 2002.

November 22, 2003: Oilers Host 2003 Heritage Classic

On November 22, 2003, the Oilers hosted the 2003 Heritage Classic, the first regular season outdoor hockey game in the NHL's history, but were defeated by the Montreal Canadiens 4–3.

2003: Rod Phillips awarded Foster Hewitt Memorial Award

Broadcaster Rod Phillips was awarded the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award by the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003.

2003: Oilers wear 1980s uniform at Heritage Classic

During the 2003 Heritage Classic, the Oilers wore their 1980s white uniform paired with the then-current navy pants.

2003: Grant Fuhr inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

Goaltender Grant Fuhr, who was present during the "dynasty era", was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003.

2004: Paul Coffey inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

In 2004, Paul Coffey was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.

2004: Oilers Struggle with Small-Market Status

In 2004, the Oilers struggled with their small-market status for several years.

2005: New CBA Helps Oilers

After the wiped-out 2004–05 season, the Oilers were aided by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between the NHL owners and players.

2006: Stanley Cup Final loss, playoff drought begins

After coming up short in the 2006 Stanley Cup Final, the Edmonton Oilers began to struggle and missed the playoffs for the subsequent 10 seasons.

2006: Playoff drought mentioned

In 2006, the Oilers had not made the playoffs since this year, a fact that was highlighted when the team sought to improve its roster.

2006: Oilers advance to conference finals

In 2022, the Oilers advanced to the conference finals for the first time since 2006, but were swept by the Colorado Avalanche.

2006: Oilers Lose Stanley Cup Final to Hurricanes

In the 2006 Stanley Cup Final, the Oilers lost to the Carolina Hurricanes in seven games, despite a strong comeback effort. Dwayne Roloson suffered a knee injury in game 1, and the Hurricanes ultimately won the series 3-1 in game 7.

2006: Oilers make it to Stanley Cup Final

In the 2023-24 NHL Season, after beating the Los Angeles Kings for the third consecutive year in the first round, the Vancouver Canucks in the second round, and the Dallas Stars in the conference finals, the Oilers won their eighth Clarence S. Campbell Bowl and made it to the Stanley Cup Final for the first time since 2006.

2006: First playoff series win since 2006

The Oilers secured their first playoff series win since 2006 by eliminating the San Jose Sharks with a 3–1 victory in game 6.

2007: Sweater design remained stable until 2007

From 1997, the Oilers' sweater design remained stable until 2007, following the removal of the shoulder yoke from the home jersey.

2007: NHL entry draft selections

From 2007 to 2019, The Edmonton Oilers made 16 first-round selections in the NHL entry draft.

2007: Oilers switch to Reebok Edge jerseys

In 2007, the Edmonton Oilers switched to Reebok Edge jerseys, retaining team colours but changing the jersey style, which included removing waistline stripes in favour of vertical piping. The "Rigger" and McFarlane third jersey were retired as well.

2007: Mark Messier inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

Mark Messier was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2007, also in his first year of eligibility.

2007: Oilers Alternate Jersey

The Edmonton Oilers' second "Reverse Retro" uniform during the 2022-23 season used the design of their 2001-2007 alternate jersey, but with orange replacing silver in the trim, as well as making the oil drop orange.

July 30, 2008: Oilers announce restructuring of hockey operations

On July 30, 2008, the Oilers announced a restructuring of their hockey operations, promoting Kevin Lowe to president of hockey operations and replacing him with Steve Tambellini.

2008: Glenn Anderson inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

In 2008, Glenn Anderson became the final Edmonton Oilers player to be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame during the 2000s.

2008: Introduction of a new alternate jersey

In 2008, the Edmonton Oilers introduced a new alternate jersey that closely resembled the blue-and-orange away jersey of the dynasty era.

2009: Blue and Orange become primary team colours

For the 2009–10 season, the Edmonton Oilers' alternate jersey became the main home jersey, with blue and orange becoming the primary team colours again.

December 14, 2010: The Octane performed for the first time

The Octane, the Edmonton Oilers cheerleading squad, performed for the first time on December 14, 2010, at a home game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The original team had 19 cheerleaders, women aged 18 to 29, dressed in uniforms that resembled the original Edmonton Oilers jerseys.

2010: Shawn Horcoff named team captain.

In 2010, Shawn Horcoff was selected to succeed Ethan Moreau as team captain.

2010: Oilers select Taylor Hall in NHL entry draft, Rod Phillips announces retirement.

In 2010, the Oilers selected Taylor Hall with the first pick in the NHL entry draft and used the off-season to begin rebuilding around young talent. Also during the off-season, radio announcer Rod Phillips announced his retirement.

February 28, 2011: Dustin Penner traded to Los Angeles Kings

On February 28, 2011, Dustin Penner was traded from the Oilers to Los Angeles in exchange for Colten Teubert, a first-round pick in 2011, and a conditional third-round pick in 2012.

June 24, 2011: Oilers present new road jerseys

On June 24, 2011, the Edmonton Oilers unveiled their new white road jerseys at the 2011 NHL entry draft, coinciding with selecting Ryan Nugent-Hopkins first overall.

2011: End of Paul Lorieau's tenure as anthem singer

In 2011, Paul Lorieau's tenure as the Edmonton Oilers' anthem singer came to an end after having held the position since 1981.

May 17, 2012: Tom Renney's contract not renewed.

On May 17, 2012, the Oilers announced they would not renew the contract of head coach Tom Renney.

October 11, 2012: NHL season delayed due to lockout.

On October 11, 2012, the start of the NHL season was delayed due to a labor lockout imposed by the NHL franchise owners.

2012: Adam Oates inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

Adam Oates was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2012. Oates played 60 games with the Edmonton Oilers after signing a one-year contract in 2003.

2012: Midnight blue jersey dropped

In 2012, the Edmonton Oilers dropped the midnight blue jersey altogether, which had previously been their third jersey.

2012: Conditional draft pick received from Los Angeles.

In 2012, the Oilers received a conditional third-round pick from Los Angeles as part of the Dustin Penner trade on February 28, 2011.

January 13, 2013: NHL training camps open after labor agreement reached.

On January 13, 2013, NHL training camps opened after a new labor agreement was reached between the owners and the NHLPA.

December 3, 2013: Rogers Communications announces naming rights to new arena.

On December 3, 2013, Rogers Communications announced it had the naming rights to the new arena; the new 18,641-seat arena was called Rogers Place.

2013: Robert Clark becomes Oilers' anthem singer

Since 2013, Robert Clark, an opera singer from Sherwood Park, has been the Edmonton Oilers' anthem singer. He's introduced as "The singing voice of your Edmonton Oilers".

March 5, 2014: Ales Hemsky traded to the Ottawa Senators.

On March 5, 2014, Ales Hemsky was traded to the Ottawa Senators.

December 15, 2014: Dallas Eakins terminated as head coach.

On December 15, 2014, Dallas Eakins was terminated as head coach. MacTavish assumed the role of interim coach while Todd Nelson transitioned into the role for the remainder of the season.

January 29, 2015: Oilers announce AHL franchise relocation to Bakersfield.

On January 29, 2015, the Oilers announced the relocation of their AHL franchise from Oklahoma City to Bakersfield, California, as part of the AHL's new Pacific Division.

2015: Chris Pronger inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

Chris Pronger, who played defence for the Edmonton Oilers, was inducted in 2015. Pronger helped lead the Edmonton Oilers to their 2006 Stanley Cup run.

2015: Peter Chiarelli replaces Craig MacTavish, Todd McLellan named head coach.

In 2015, Peter Chiarelli replaced Craig MacTavish as general manager, and Todd McLellan was named the new head coach of the Oilers on May 19.

2015: Oilers make changes to coaching and scouting staff.

In 2015, the Oilers made changes to their coaching and scouting staff, including relieving Stu MacGregor and Morey Gare of their duties. The Oilers elected to begin the 2015-16 season without a team captain.

2015: Oilers win draft lottery and select Connor McDavid.

In 2015, the Oilers won the draft lottery and selected Connor McDavid first overall in the NHL entry draft held in Sunrise, Florida, on June 26.

2015: Introduction of new alternate jersey

In the 2015–16 season, the Edmonton Oilers introduced a new alternate jersey inspired by their original WHA design, with orange as a primary colour.

February 27, 2016: Justin Schultz traded to Pittsburgh Penguins.

On February 27, 2016, Justin Schultz was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2016 NHL entry draft.

August 2016: Oilers discontinue The Octane

In August 2016, the Oilers Entertainment Group (OEG) announced it was discontinuing The Octane, the Oilers cheerleading squad. They also announced auditions for a newly formed, co-ed group of "brand ambassadors" named the Oilers Orange and Blue Ice Crew.

September 26, 2016: Unveiling of Hunter as Oilers mascot

On September 26, 2016, the Edmonton Oilers unveiled Hunter, a Canadian lynx, as their team mascot. The choice of the Canadian lynx was because their largest place of habitat is Alberta and also because it was the largest vote overall.

2016: Expectations high for 2016-17 season

Coming into the 2016-17 season, the Oilers faced high expectations following a surprising year, but failed to make the playoffs.

2016: Rogers Place opens

In 2016, Rogers Place, the current home arena of the Edmonton Oilers, officially opened.

2016: Oilers experience successful season

In 2016, the Oilers had a successful season, finishing with a 47–26–9 record, driven by Connor McDavid's 100-point season and strong performances from Leon Draisaitl, Patrick Maroon, and Cam Talbot. McDavid also earned the Art Ross Trophy and Hart Memorial Trophy.

2016: Surge of Orange and Heritage Classic

In 2016, the alternate orange jersey became popular with the fanbase leading to the "Surge of Orange". The Edmonton Oilers also wore the alternate orange jerseys in the 2016 Heritage Classic.

2016: Pat Quinn inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

Pat Quinn, who coached the Edmonton Oilers for one year in 2009 was posthumously inducted in 2016. In his first and only season as head coach of the Edmonton Oilers, the team finished in last place in the league with a record of 27–47–8.

March 28, 2017: Oilers qualify for 2017 Stanley Cup playoffs

On March 28, 2017, the Oilers defeated the Los Angeles Kings 2–1, securing their spot in the 2017 Stanley Cup playoffs, ending an 11-year drought.

2017: Clare Drake inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

Clare Drake was inducted in 2017. During the 1975–76 WHA season, Drake served as the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers.

2017: Orange jersey becomes Oilers' home design

During the 2017–18 season, with the switch to Adidas jerseys, the Edmonton Oilers' orange jersey became the home design, retaining the 1980s-era template and bringing back midnight blue as an accent colour.

2017: Greatest NHL team of all time

In 2017, the 1984-85 Edmonton Oilers were voted as the greatest NHL team of all-time during the league's centennial celebrations.

2017: Oilers trade Eberle and sign McDavid and Draisaitl

In 2017, the Oilers traded Jordan Eberle to the New York Islanders for Ryan Strome and signed Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl to long-term contracts worth $100 million and $68 million, respectively.

2017: Oilers have a 40-win season

In 2021, the Oilers had a 49–27–6 record, marking their first 40-win season since 2017. McDavid recorded a career-high 123 points.

2018: Oilers wear classic 1980s blue jerseys

In 2018–19, to commemorate the franchise's 40th anniversary in the NHL, the Edmonton Oilers wore their classic 1980s blue jerseys for four home games against original Smythe Division rivals.

January 22, 2019: Chiarelli terminated as president and general manager

On January 22, 2019, the Oilers terminated Peter Chiarelli's employment as president and general manager, and Keith Gretzky was appointed interim general manager the following day.

May 7, 2019: Ken Holland appointed as general manager

On May 7, 2019, Ken Holland was appointed as the new general manager of the Oilers.

2019: Oilers unveil new midnight blue alternate jersey

Before the 2019–20 season, the Edmonton Oilers unveiled a new midnight blue alternate jersey with minimal striping and a lack of white elements.

2019: NHL entry draft selections

From 2007 to 2019, The Edmonton Oilers made 16 first-round selections in the NHL entry draft.

March 12, 2020: 2019-20 season suspended due to COVID-19 pandemic

On March 12, 2020, the Oilers had a 37–25–9 record when the season was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

2020: Oilers finish second in North Division

In 2020, the Oilers finished second in the North Division with a 35–19–2 record, largely due to Connor McDavid's 105-point season and Leon Draisaitl's 84 points.

2020: Oilers release Reverse Retro alternate uniform

In the 2020–21 season, the Edmonton Oilers released a "Reverse Retro" alternate uniform, reviving the 1980s white jersey but with the orange and blue switching places, save for the team's crest.

2020: Ken Holland inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

Ken Holland, Edmonton Oilers general manager and president of hockey operations from 2019 to 2024, was inducted in 2020.

2021: Jack Michaels calls play-by-play on Oilers TV broadcasts

As of 2021, Jack Michaels calls play-by-play on most Edmonton Oilers TV broadcasts alongside Louie DeBrusk and reporter Gene Principe.

2021: Oilers have a 40-win season

In 2021, the Oilers had a 49–27–6 record, marking their first 40-win season since 2017. McDavid recorded a career-high 123 points.

2021: Oilers wear midnight blue alternates at home playoff games

The Edmonton Oilers wore their midnight blue alternates at home playoff games during the 2021 and 2022 Stanley Cup playoffs.

September 7, 2022: Oilers announce establishment of club Hall of Fame

On September 7, 2022, the Edmonton Oilers announced the establishment of their own club Hall of Fame. The inaugural Class of 2022 members included Al Hamilton, Wayne Gretzky, Jari Kurri, Grant Fuhr, Paul Coffey, Mark Messier, Glenn Anderson, Kevin Lowe, Glen Sather and Rod Phillips.

2022: Oilers bring back 1980s jerseys and unveil second Reverse Retro uniform

Beginning with the 2022–23 season, the Edmonton Oilers brought back the 1980s blue and white jerseys, while retaining the alternate midnight blue jerseys. The Oilers also unveiled a second "Reverse Retro" uniform, using the 2001–2007 alternate but with orange replacing silver in the trim, as well as making the oil drop orange.

2022: Three Oilers reach 100-point milestone

In 2022, Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins each reached the 100-point milestone for the Oilers.

2022: Oilers clinch second place in Pacific Division

In 2022, the Oilers clinched second place in the Pacific Division after McDavid's career-high 123 points. They faced the Los Angeles Kings in the first round of the 2022 Stanley Cup playoffs.

2022: Oilers wear midnight blue alternates at home playoff games

The Edmonton Oilers wore their midnight blue alternates at home playoff games during the 2021 and 2022 Stanley Cup playoffs.

September 20, 2023: Oilers announce 2023 Hall of Fame class

On September 20, 2023, the Edmonton Oilers announced that Charlie Huddy and former team captain Doug Weight would be the two members of the 2023 Hall of Fame class.

November 11, 2023: Kris Knoblauch becomes head coach

On November 11, 2023, Kris Knoblauch became the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers.

November 12, 2023: Woodcroft and Manson dismissed

On November 12, 2023, head coach Jay Woodcroft and assistant coach Dave Manson were dismissed due to the Oilers' disappointing 3–9–1 start to the season.

December 21, 2023: Oilers begin 16-game win streak

On December 21, 2023, the Oilers began a 16-game win streak with a victory against the New Jersey Devils.

2023: Oilers wear specially designed uniforms for Heritage Classic

For the team's appearance in the 2023 Heritage Classic, the Edmonton Oilers wore specially designed uniforms featuring a blue-based design with an enlarged oil drop, the team name in blue letters at the bottom, and orange and cream stripes. Brown pants and gloves were worn to evoke early 20th-century hockey equipment.

2023: Second Round Elimination

In the 2024-25 season, the Edmonton Oilers eliminated the Vegas Golden Knights in five games avenging their 2023 second round elimination.

2023: Ken Hitchcock inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

Ken Hitchcock, who coached the Edmonton Oilers during the 2018–19 NHL season, was inducted in 2023.

February 6, 2024: Oilers' 16-game win streak ends

On February 6, 2024, the Oilers' 16-game win streak ended with a loss against the Vegas Golden Knights.

June 27, 2024: Oilers and Holland part ways

On June 27, 2024, three days after the Oilers' loss in the Stanley Cup Final, the Oilers and general manager Ken Holland mutually decided to part ways. Jeff Jackson assumed the role of interim general manager.

July 24, 2024: Stan Bowman becomes general manager

On July 24, 2024, Stan Bowman assumed the role of general manager for the Edmonton Oilers.

August 1, 2024: MacTavish and Gregg to be inducted into Oilers Hall of Fame

On August 1, 2024, the Edmonton Oilers announced that Craig MacTavish and Randy Gregg would be inducted into the Oilers Hall of Fame ahead of their home game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 25.

2024: Stanley Cup Final loss

In 2024, the Edmonton Oilers reached the Stanley Cup Final and lost to the Florida Panthers.

2024: Oilers started the season slow

In the 2024-25 season, the Edmonton Oilers began the season with a slow start, recording a 5-5-1 record by the end of October.

2024: Rogers sublicenses Monday night NHL games to Prime Video

In the 2024–25 season, Rogers sublicensed its Monday night NHL games, including those involving the Edmonton Oilers, exclusively to Prime Video, with no regional broadcast available for those streaming broadcasts.

October 6, 2025: McDavid signs two-year extension

On October 6, 2025, Connor McDavid signed a two-year contract extension with the Oilers.

2025: Duncan Keith inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame

In 2025 Duncan Keith, who played defence during the 2021–22 season, was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

2025: Stanley Cup Final loss

In 2025, the Edmonton Oilers reached the Stanley Cup Final and lost to the Florida Panthers.

2025: Oilers' Season and Playoff Performance

In the 2024-25 season, the Oilers stumbled to a 1-6-0 record before closing the regular season with a 48-29-5 record. They reached the Stanley Cup Final for the second consecutive year but lost to the Florida Panthers in six games.

2025: Oilers unveil new alternate uniform

In the 2025–26 season, the Edmonton Oilers unveiled a new alternate uniform, featuring a tan base with blue and orange stripes across the shoulders, sleeves, and waist. The crest features the "Oilers" script in blue between two orange lines, and a right shoulder roundel patch containing an oil rig and the nickname "Oil Country".

April 21, 2026: Update

On April 21, 2026 the provided document was updated.

History of Edmonton Oilers in Timeline