Can a Hall of Famer Really Reset the Oilers Midseason?

There’s something about seeing a Hall of Famer stroll back into your locker room that changes the vibe. Edmonton Oilers defenceman Mattias Ekholm couldn’t hide his excitement talking about Paul Coffey’s return as an assistant coach. And honestly, it’s not just nostalgia talking—it might actually matter.

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Coffey Never Left the Team, Just the Oilers’ Bench

Coffey never really left the scene. He’s hung around the team, offered advice, and been part of the conversation. But now, with a full-time coaching role, he’s an injection of energy, according to Ekholm. And that energy isn’t just hype. Coffey brings a perspective that few people on the planet have. He sees the game differently, anticipates plays before they happen, and can communicate it in a way that players actually absorb.

Ekholm was clear: Coffey’s value isn’t just on the bench during games. He’s there off the ice, during film sessions, during day-to-day prep. He reminds players about the details that matter—positioning, timing, making the simple plays count. In a gruelling season, with the Oilers feeling the wear of nearly four games a week, that kind of focused, calm guidance is priceless.

The Oilers Have Lost a Bit of Their Defensive Edge. Can Coffey Help Get It Back?

And Ekholm suggested that the Oilers have lost a bit of their defensive edge recently. Coffey won’t “reinvent the wheel.” Still, his personality, presence, and insight can help the team find its edge. He could become a reset for their attention to detail, helping players mentally lock in on every shift. That’s the kind of leadership that separates playoff teams from those who don’t.

The real question: can Coffey change the defence simply by being there? Ekholm thinks he can. It’s not magic—just years of experience, focus on details, and a culture he’s lived himself. Now the players get to take it in, shift by shift.

If the Oilers Can Integrate Coffey’s Insights, It Would Help

If the Oilers can integrate Coffey’s perspective, stay disciplined, and push the pace without leaving themselves exposed, this could be the stretch run that changes the narrative for their season. And maybe, just maybe, seeing a Hall of Famer not just talk, but teach the nuances of defence, will help Edmonton turn the grind of a long schedule into a real opportunity to dominate down the stretch.

Related: Oilers Shake Up Blue Line with Regula Loan, Coffey’s Return to Bench