Nhl Records

A Look at the Oilers' Captains and Playoff Success

From the WHA to the NHL

The Edmonton Oilers have a rich history, both in the World Hockey Association (WHA) and the National Hockey League (NHL). The team has made the playoffs 45 times in its 53 seasons, capturing five Stanley Cups along the way.

The Oilers' first playoff appearance came in the 1972-73 season, when they were still a member of the WHA. The team made the playoffs seven times during its time in the WHA, but never advanced past the second round. The Oilers' luck changed in 1979 when they joined the NHL. The team won its first Stanley Cup in 1984 after a hard-fought battle with the New York Islanders. The Oilers would win the Cup again in 1985, 1987, 1988, and 1990. They also won the Presidents Trophy four times in the 1980s.

Captains of the Oilers

The Oilers have had 23 head coaches in their franchise history, seven during their time in the WHA and 17 during their time in the NHL. The Oilers' most successful coach is Glen Sather, who won five Stanley Cups with the team. Other notable Oilers coaches include Bryan Trottier, Kevin Lowe, and Todd McLellan.

A young captain

On October 5, 2016, 19-year-old Connor McDavid was named the 15th captain of the Oilers. McDavid was the youngest team captain in NHL history at the time of his appointment.

Edmonton Journal