Oilers Week Ahead: Schedule & Storylines – Dickinson Injury, Roster Trimming, & More

The Edmonton Oilers concluded their preseason with a 4-1 win over the Calgary Flames at Rogers Place on Saturday night (Sept. 26). They finished 4-0-0 during the preseason and looked good. Despite the shortened preseason, this was still the first time they finished with a perfect record. They played sound defensive hockey, something this team has lacked for years. Although it was only preseason, there were plenty of positives to take away. They allowed just five goals in those four games. The goaltending was great, and their overall competitive level was excellent.

The Oilers must carry that into the season. If everyone buys in, they will be a tough team to beat. Here are a couple of storylines to follow, and their upcoming schedule for the week of Sept. 27 – Oct. 3.

Dickinson Suffered Setback

Forward Jason Dickinson dealt with an injury early in training camp and didn’t suit up in the preseason. He’s still dealing with the foot injury that limited him in the playoffs.

Head coach Mike Babcock confirmed that Dickinson re-aggravated the same broken foot he originally suffered at the end of last season. He likely won’t be ready by opening night, leaving a gaping hole on the roster. The 31-year-old took part in the optional morning skate on Sept. 26, which is a great sign. Thankfully, he shouldn’t be out long-term.

Good sign to have Jason Dickinson on the ice for @EdmontonOilers optional morning skate. pic.twitter.com/aPcGwWDt2X

— Gene Principe (@GenePrincipe) September 26, 2026

Dickinson is an elite penalty killer and defensive-minded third-line centre. Somebody must step up and fill that role in his absence. They could move Ryan Nugent-Hopkins into that spot, or elevate Josh Samanski. They’ve also experimented with Colton Dach at centre, and Trent Frederic has also played centre in the past. So, he could be an option. They will need to mix and match until Dickinson returns.

Oilers’ Roster Taking Shape

This is how the Oilers suited up in their preseason finale, and this lineup should be very close to what it will look like for their home opener.

That centre depth looks questionable without Dickinson. Since he’s out, it might be best to separate McDavid and Draisaitl. Nugent-Hopkins is not a second-line centre at this point in his career. Plus, having Frederic, Michaels, or Dach up the middle is a gamble. Does that mean Samanski has fallen out of favour with the coaching staff? Not having him in the lineup with this limited centre depth is concerning.

Where will the offence come from on the second and third lines? Nugent-Hopkins and Hyman are complementary pieces and not play drivers. Howard also isn’t a play driver and is inexperienced, which makes that line worrisome.

Then, Kapanen will need to carry the third line. Michaels and Frederic aren’t offensive, and can they be fully trusted in the defensive zone? Michaels has shown great defensive awareness, but he also hasn’t played an NHL game. It’s a great sign that he has impressed enough to get another look with a veteran-heavy lineup.

On a positive note, that fourth line looks promising. They will bring much-needed speed and physicality to the bottom six. If that trio can chip in offensively, they will earn extra minutes and provide incredible value. That’s a great energy line. The lines might be in a blender early in the season until healthy bodies return, or they find something that works.

Oilers Upcoming Schedule

The Oilers kick off the regular season with three games this week, all against Pacific Division foes, including two at home and one on the road. Starting the season strong is imperative.

Now, the games matter. Keep following The Hockey Writers for all your NHL content throughout the season.