Edmonton Oilers: 3 Bold Predictions for the 2022-23 Season

The Edmonton Oilers finished last season with a 49-27-6 record and were looking to make some noise in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Unfortunately they ran into the Colorado Avalanche who made short work of the Oilers, sweeping them in four games. Will this season be different in Edmonton? Here's three bold predictions heading into this season:

Jack Campbell Gets Nominated for the Vezina

The Oilers were desperate for a save last season and unfortunately Mike Smith couldn't be there when it mattered most. General manager Ken Holland was aggressive on the free-agent market, signing Jack Campbell to a five-year contract. 'Soup' had a fine season with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2021-22, however, expect to see Campbell play lights out in Edmonton. He's finally fully healthy, confident as ever and ready to make a huge splash with the Oil. Prediction: Campbell named finalist for the Vezina.

Evan Bouchard Becomes #1 Defenseman in Edmonton

The Oilers have some serious talent on their back end with the likes of Darnell Nurse, Tyson Barrie, among others. However, there's nobody as naturally talented as Evan Bouchard and expect to see the right-handed defenseman make a major jump in 2022-23, becoming the #1 defenseman in Edmonton.

Last season Bouchard put up 43 points in 81 games and that was with only playing an average of 1:19 on the power play per game. For instance, Connor McDavid averages 3:43 with the man advantage and expect to see Bouchard leap frog Barrie for PP minutes this season.

Connor McDavid Reaches 140 Points

With 123 points in 2021-22, Connor McDavid put on a show for 80 regular season games. He followed that up with 33 points in 16 Stanley Cup Playoff games. Needless to say 'McJesus' can't be stopped and he's going to elevate his game this season. My prediction: McDavid reaches 140 points, the first time we've seen this mark in years. With a full season of Evander Kane on his wing, and perhaps Zach Hyman, or Leon Draisaitl, McDavid will be must-see TV every night. The Oilers are going to be a force in 2022-23, and it all starts with #97.