Edmonton Oilers

So Much for the Tired McDavid “Shoot the Puck” Narrative

Connor McDavid’s recent shift to a more aggressive style has changed the narrative around his play. Why is he so frustrated?

by
NHL Trade Talk
January 7, 2026

Connor McDavid was tired of hearing the same old song and dance about his propensity to pass the puck rather than shoot it at the start of the 2025-26 season. A game versus the Minnesota Wild changed his mentality, and since then, he’s gone on one of the greatest personal streaks in his career and, frankly, hockey history.

Following a hat trick versus the Nashville Predators on Tuesday night, McDavid was asked about how the number of shots he’s now taking when he wasn’t before. His sassy response should tell fans everything they need to know about where his head is at and the tired narrative he’s looking to shake.

It was noted that he now has 25 shots on net over the last three games. When asked if the game is just presenting those opportunities or he’s making a concerted effort to shoot more, he responded, “We’ve had this conversation lost, us group. You guys like to talk about me shooting the puck. I’ve said I want to shoot the puck, and I’m shooting the puck. There you go.”

McDavid Made the Choice… But What Took So Long?

It’s clear something in McDavid has switched. He’s not passing up on nearly as many opportunities to score as he was to start the season. He’s come on so strong that he’s leapfrogged into second place in the NHL standings for goals, is on pace for 53, and he’s trending toward a 143-point season.

McDavid frustrated as media continue asking about his shooting mentality

Whether he was choked about being questioned or he realized on his own that his approach wasn’t getting the job done, he’s become more selfish, in the best possible way. When McDavid scores, the Oilers are much more dangerous. He becomes more than a playmaking threat, but he forces defenses to react to multiple scenarios, most of which they can’t defend.

Now that he’s producing at this level, don’t expect it to stop. And, if it is the media that has triggered the change, he’s got a spur in his saddle. He’s not looking to keep having these conversations. That he was asked about it after a three-goal performance only means everyone is still watching and hoping this shift in the mentality of the Oilers’ captain is permanent.

Next: Polarizing Goalie Decision Looks Different for the Oilers Right Now