In this episode of Locked On Oilers, host Nick Zararis breaks down the two franchise-shifting moves that turned the Edmonton Oilers from a solid playoff team into a legitimate Stanley Cup contender the free-agent signing of Zach Hyman and the trade for Mattias Ekholm.We analyze how Zach Hyman’s transition from the Toronto Maple Leafs to playing alongside Connor McDavid transformed his game, doubled his shot totals, and gave the Oilers one of the NHL’s most relentless net-front presences. Then, we dive deep into how Mattias Ekholm’s defensive stability unlocked Evan Bouchard’s offensive potential, creating one of the league’s most reliable top defensive pairings.Plus, we discuss what the Edmonton Oilers can learn from these moves going forward, the importance of surrounding McDavid and Leon Draisaitl with the right complementary players, and why roster fit matters just as much as raw talent when chasing the Stanley Cup.15:51 Ekholm-Bouchard pairing's statistical impact26:33 Future moves to maintain contender statusHow Zach Hyman & Mattias Ekholm Made the Edmonton Oilers Stanley Cup ContendersSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnhl for 50% off your first year.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.IndeedNow, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to Indeed.com/LOCKEDON right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOOilers?sid=YouTubeLocked On NHL League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Prospects & More🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNHL #NHL #Oilers #EdmontonOilers Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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