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Oilers’ Owen Michaels Is Winning Trust, But the Underlying Numbers Tell a Different Story

The Edmonton Oilers have done an excellent job finding talent outside traditional channels without sacrificing draft picks or prospects. General manager Stan Bowman has built a reputation for uncovering value in uncommon places, strengthening the organization’s depth while adding players…

Published: Thursday, 15 October 2026 at 2:00 PM
Oilers’ Owen Michaels Is Winning Trust, But the Underlying Numbers Tell a Different Story
Key Things to Know
  • Owen Michaels has earned head coach Mike Babcock's trust despite concerning underlying possession numbers.
  • Michaels holds a 33.8 percent expected goals share through his first six NHL games.
  • The rookie forward has scored two goals while averaging 13:25 of ice time per game.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Edmonton Oilers rookie Owen Michaels has quickly earned the trust of head coach Mike Babcock, scoring two goals in his first six games and playing key late-game minutes. Signed as organizational depth from Western Michigan, Michaels has taken on third-line duties, penalty-killing roles, and crucial faceoffs amid roster injuries.

However, NHL Trade Talk highlights that Michaels holds a concerning 33.8 percent expected goals share alongside an unsustainably high PDO. While tough defensive zone deployments partly explain the disparity, the report notes that his possession numbers may need to improve once the team's injured players return.

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