Connor McDavid at a loss for words when asked about Jay Woodcroft's firing

By Ankit Kumar

Modified Feb 08, 2024 16:40 GMT

On Dec. 15, Connor McDavid faced some difficult questions when he visited Nellie Carlson School for a fundraising event by the Ben Stelter Foundation.

One of the questions posed to the Edmonton Oilers captain was about the termination of Jay Woodcroft.

"I've learned to never be surprised. I've been asked just about everything at these types of events," McDavid replied. "How'd I feel about the coach getting fired? I didn't expect some of these hard-hitting questions."

The Oilers fired Woodcroft and assistant coach Dave Manson on Nov. 12, 2023, after a disastrous 3-9-1 start to the 2023–24 NHL season, amid high expectations for Stanley Cup contention.

Kris Knoblauch, previously the head coach of the New York Rangers' AHL affiliate Hartford Wolfpack, swiftly assumed the coaching role, with Oilers legend Paul Coffey joining as an assistant coach.

Under Knoblauch's guidance, the Oilers have undergone a remarkable transformation, boasting a stellar 29-15-1 record. The team is on a phenomenal 16-game winning streak and has surged back into Stanley Cup contention, building on a previous eight-game winning streak.

Not only have Knoblauch’s successes quelled doubts but there is a sense of championship hunger again within the team.

Connor McDavid powers Oilers to 16th consecutive win

Connor McDavid contributed a goal and three assists to propel the Edmonton Oilers to their 16th consecutive victory, bringing them within one of tying the NHL record. The Oilers secured a 4-1 win against the Nashville Predators, matching the 2016–17 Columbus Blue Jackets for the second-longest streak.

“It’s exciting, obviously it’s a great run, obviously the goalies have played great," Connor McDavid said. "This past week wasn’t our best hockey and we found a way to get three wins, which is a great sign. We’ve gotten great goaltending, the back end has been good, the kill has been amazing, those are all good things.”

Leon Draisaitl, with a goal and two assists, and goaltender Stuart Skinner's 28 saves also played pivotal roles in Edmonton's success.

"We have been a bit sloppy the last three games but have obviously had some individual performances that have gotten us the wins," Draisaitl said.

Despite Colton Sissons scoring for the Predators, Edmonton's power play and Connor McDavid's four points sealed the victory. Draisaitl's milestone 800th career point marked a significant moment in the game. Skinner's impressive goaltending, with a 19-2 record in his last 21 starts, and Zach Hyman's empty-netter for his 30th goal capped off the Oilers' remarkable performance.

The Oilers look forward to their next challenge against Vegas on Feb. 6 after the All-Star break.