NHL insider Jason Gregor has emphasized the need for Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl to increase their shooting frequency to boost the Edmonton Oilers’ power play effectiveness. This call for change comes as the Oilers recently appointed Paul McFarland as their new assistant coach, tasked with improving the team‘s power play going into the next season.
McFarland joined the Oilers coaching staff in mid-July, bringing experience from his previous roles at both junior and NHL levels. The organization expects him to refine the power play strategy after taking over responsibilities once held by Glen Gulutzan.
Paul McFarland’s Coaching Journey and Expertise
Paul McFarland’s coaching career began in the Ontario Hockey League as an assistant with the Oshawa Generals, a role he held for two years. He then served three seasons as head coach of the Kingston Frontenacs, guiding them to the playoffs each year during his tenure.
At the NHL level, McFarland has been an assistant coach with the Florida Panthers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and most recently with the Seattle Kraken under head coach Dave Hakstol. In Seattle, he specialized in coaching forwards and managed the power play unit, skills directly relevant to his current role with Edmonton.
McFarland is also recognized in the hockey community for his contributions to coaching education, notably through presentations like his 2022 session on
“The Importance of Zone Entries and Attacking off the Rush”
at The Coaches Site Live event.
Jason Gregor’s Perspective on Power Play Improvements
Jason Gregor has identified two key priorities for McFarland: encouraging Connor McDavid to take more shots on the power play and helping Leon Draisaitl regain the productive style he displayed in the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Gregor pointed out a significant decline in the team‘s power-play shot volume last season, which McFarland will need to address to restore the Oilers’ offensive threat during man advantages.
“I want McDavid shooting more and I want Draisaitl back up to the level he was in 23 & 24. If I’m Paul McFarland (Oilers PP coach) the thing I’m going to look at is why the Oilers are shooting so much less on the powerplay.” —Jason Gregor
Gregor’s insights suggest that increasing shooting attempts could be fundamental in unlocking the Oilers’ power play potential, a task McFarland faces as he settles into his new position.
Looking Ahead: Can McFarland Restore the Oilers’ Power Play Effectiveness?
The Edmonton Oilers and their fans will be closely watching how Paul McFarland influences the team’s power play dynamics this season. With leadership familiar with successful coaching strategies and an emphasis on high shot volume from key players like Connor McDavid, there is cautious optimism that the Oilers can regain their scoring edge during power plays.
Improving power play output could prove critical in Edmonton’s pursuit of postseason success, making McFarland’s role central to the team’s future performance.