2024-25 WHL Season Preview: Edmonton Oil Kings

Welcome to The Hockey News 2024-25 season preview series. From August 29 to September 20, THN's WHL duo will examine some of the biggest storylines facing each team this season. Today's edition is focused on the Edmonton Oil Kings, who are hungry to regain a postseason berth for the first time since claiming the 2022 WHL Championship.

2023-24 Statistics:
Regular Season Record: 27-37-3-1, 58 Points (6th Central Division)
Playoffs: N/A
Key Departures: Marc Lajoie (D), Ty Nash (F)
Key Additions: Miroslav Holinka (F), Josh Mori (D)

Edmonton went into almost an immediate free-fall after winning the WHL Championship just two seasons ago, losing many of their key pieces to the pros, but the Oil Kings have managed to keep their potential through drafting and other asset management.

Up front, there is plenty of competition to stand out. Returning for another season is Gracyn Sawchyn, who is poised for another stellar season at the WHL level. Alongside him are Oil Kings veterans Cole Miller and John Szabo, who will be expected to lead the team this upcoming season. The rest of the lineup is littered with talent, and certainly has promise to break out.

On the blueline, while the graduation of powerplay goal record holder Marc Lajoie certainly is a blow, there has been a fair bit of player movement and development to take his place. Acquired from the Portland Winterhawks in May, 2004-born Josh Mori looks to bring a veteran presence to the Oil Kings back end, while 2025 NHL Draft prospect Blake Fiddler appears to take another step forward in his young career.

In goal, Kolby Hay returns for his final WHL season, having been a fixture of Edmonton's crease since the departure of Sebastian Cossa. Behind him, Alex Worthington looks to make another step and take the "passing of the torch" between the pipes as Hay will likely once again have the majority of starts.

While the Oil Kings finished well out of the playoff picture in 2023-24, this team has a wealth of potential and could quite possibly make a run at a spot come March 2025.

Make sure you bookmark THN's WHL site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.

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