Frustration in Oil Country

Going into this season I never really expected the Oilers to make the playoffs. And why would I really? We all knew this year would be full of growing pains. The Oilers roster currently consists of 15 players 25 years of age or younger with the youngest being Sam Gagner at only 18. Along with the Phoenix Coyotes they are the two youngest teams in the NHL. Of the 15 players 25 or younger, 12 of those are only in their second full NHL season. 3 of them are rookies. They are a young team who are learning and growing as they go.

Add to that the injuries that they have endured this season. Our D was hit hard this year with injury. Matt Greene missed 3 months with a broken ankle, Souray has missed27 games total with a nagging shoulder injury and has me wondering if he is now out for the entire season. Joni Pitkanen has been in and out of the lineup 2 or 3 times with knee problems. As far as our forwards go it hasn't been much better. Sanderson missed over a month with back spasms, Torres was put on the shelf for the year back in December, Pisani missed the first 2 months with Colitis, Captain Ethan Moreau missed the first 3 months with a leg/ankle injury. And now the biggest blow of the season with Shawn Horcoff undergoing season ending shoulder surgery tomorrow.

So where does this leave the Oilers? Well most likely it solidifies the fact that they will be on the outside looking in this coming postseason. Disapointing? Of course. But they have some great and very talented hockey players and have a very bright future. And I for one am excited about that bright future.

Tonight they take on arch rivals the Calgary Flames. Nothing would start my week off better than handing the Flamers a loss tonight. A tough task but one I hope the kids are up for. Go Oilers!!