The Edmonton Oilers’ coaching search has made an intriguing pivot, as former NHL coach Peter Laviolette has become a serious option for the 2026-27 season.

Former Oilers defenseman Chris Pronger recently spoke with the NHL Insider Bob Stauffer on Oilers Now and explained why he believes Laviolette could be a strong fit for Edmonton.

Chris Pronger first delved into the pressure on the Edmonton Oilers after another disappointing season, despite boasting elite talent on its roster.

“Your two top players have said it’s not good enough,” Pronger spoke on Oilers Now, as reported by the Edmonton Journal. “They need to be better. They have taken accountability, which is the first step.”

The Oilers endured a disappointing first-round playoff elimination at the hands of the Anaheim Ducks, following consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances.

According to Chris Pronger, the pressure is now on the management, the next coach, and the players to find the right system and win the team its first Stanley Cup since 1990.

While talking about Peter Laviolette, Pronger praised his offensive coaching style. He believes Laviolette could help the Edmonton Oilers fix their secondary scoring, which has been noted as one of their biggest problems.

“Very detailed, he’s got an offensive system,” Pronger explained. “A lot of the commentaries around [the Oilers], they need secondary scoring. They need more than the big guys carrying the load offensively.”

Peter Laviolette has coached quite a few NHL teams, including the New York Islanders, Carolina Hurricanes, Philadelphia Flyers, Nashville Predators, Washington Capitals, and New York Rangers. He also coached Team USA at an international level.

The veteran coach reached the Stanley Cup Final with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2006, the Philadelphia Flyers in 2010, and the Nashville Predators in 2017.

And he has gone all the way, having won the Stanley Cup with Carolina. He also added the Presidents’ Trophy to his cabinet with the New York Rangers during the 2023-24 season.

How Peter Laviolette Could Fix Edmonton’s Consistency Problems

One of Edmonton’s biggest problems has been its dependence on its top players like center Connor McDavid and forward Leon Draisaitl. Pronger said Laviolette’s aggressive forechecking system and strong puck pressure could create offense from the entire lineup. He also added that Laviolette brings a solid defensive structure to his teams.

“He’s going to put players in situations to be successful,” Pronger added.

Pronger also highlighted Laviolette’s strict coaching style. He believes it could help the team play with more discipline and consistency throughout the season.

“I think for Lavi, yes, he can grind on you at times,” Pronger said. “He’s going to push you to get the most out of you.”

Peter Laviolette uses an aggressive defensive system that needs strong communication and teamwork. The system fits the Edmonton Oilers roster and their attacking style.

Reports suggest that the coaching race in the market includes several big names, including Bruce Cassidy and Craig Berube. Now, Peter Laviolette is also being viewed as a candidate for the Oilers. 

Read more at the NHL Fan Central. 

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Sijo Paul