REPORTS: Jeff Jackson’s “best in class” plan a multi-layered approach to a Stanley Cup, 9 Things

During this period, NHL players have had a chance to rest, reconnect with their families, and focus on their personal lives, and are now beginning to prepare for their return to competitive play in the Fall.

While their efforts on the ice are crucial, so too are the efforts of those who manage the teams off the ice, and the Edmonton Oilers are no exception.

Here’s the latest update on…

9 Things 9. Stuart Skinner has changed his representation from J.P. Barry at CAA to Ray Petkau at Alpha Hockey Inc., an agency known for managing many goaltenders.

8. The Hlinka-Gretzky Tournament starts Monday in Edmonton with Canada facing Switzerland. This top-tier U18 event might have caught Stan Bowman’s attention, signaling more strategic team building. More details on that soon…

Article content 7. Former Oiler Tyson Barrie returned to his home area of Vancouver Island this weekend to host a charity concert featuring Sarah McLachlan among others. The event raised over $400K for children’s charities. Kudos to him.

6. Last week, I mentioned a potential contract for Leon Draisaitl and noted that some experts didn’t think it was imminent. It appears that assessment was accurate.
7. Will the popular Oilers Now radio show remain in its pre-2023-24 season time slot? Despite Bob Stauffer’s expertise, radio listenership is not easily predictable. A 3-6pm drive show might be more effective than the previous 4-7 hybrid slot. Summer ratings, including those during the Stanley Cup Final, will be available later this month.

Article content 4. For Oilers fans looking to update their gear, here are some new jersey numbers to note: Jeff Skinner (53), Viktor Arvidsson (33), Collin Delia (60), Connor Carrick (58), Josh Brown (44), and Roby Jarventie (61, a first for the Oilers). Also, Matt Savoie, who usually wore 93, will now sport number 22 due to Ryan Nugent-Hopkins likely retiring that number.

3. Sports Illustrated has suggested Zach Hyman is unlikely to replicate a 50-goal season with the Oilers. Writer Nick Horwat’s analysis is based largely on TSN’s Frank Corrado’s views. However, given Hyman’s experience with Connor McDavid, he might still surprise.

Article content 2. The latest inductees into the Edmonton Oilers Hall of Fame are Randy Gregg and Craig MacTavish. Gregg has five Stanley Cups with Edmonton, while MacTavish has three and is notable for having played, coached, and managed the team. The induction ceremony will take place on October 25th. It’s worth remembering Bill Hunter’s crucial role in the team’s history, and hopefully, he will be recognized in the future.

1. The phrase “Best In Class” has been associated with Jeff Jackson since he became the Oilers CEO. It was used when announcing Stan Bowman as the new GM and Rick Pracey as Head Amateur Scout, reflecting a commitment to excellence. Jackson’s emphasis on top-notch video and analytics teams shows his focus on building a superior organization, drawing from his experience at Wasserman Hockey.

Article content Building a “Best In Class” organization off the ice is essential for any successful NHL team, especially one with star players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Just as leading companies strive for small advantages to achieve greatness, so too must hockey teams. Jackson’s experience and strategic approach to team building, including the recent moves like the drafting of Sam O’Reilly and extending Adam Henrique, demonstrate his commitment to excellence.

Jackson’s off-ice decisions so far indicate a focus on precision, thoroughness, innovation, and hard work—principles that can significantly contribute to winning a Stanley Cup.