Oilers Need to Let Go of Veteran Forward With Only 3 Goals in Two Seasons — Fans Are Losing Patience
The Edmonton Oilers are facing a tough reality that many fans have been trying to overlook: being loyal is hurting the team’s chances of winning. At the center of this problem is veteran forward Mattias Janmark.
Although there was a little spark of hope during last season’s playoffs, Janmark’s overall performance has been very disappointing. Scoring just three goals in two seasons is not only discouraging—it’s concerning for a team aiming for the Stanley Cup. With star players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the team can’t afford to keep players who aren’t contributing.
Surprisingly, in July 2024, Janmark got a modified no-trade clause along with a three-year contract worth $1.45 million each year. That choice now seems puzzling. At the time he signed, his scoring was already going down, his influence was fading, and younger players who wanted to prove themselves were ready to step up. Yet, management preferred safety over bringing in competition.
Fans defend Janmark by saying he has “intangibles”—like good defense, experience, and leadership in the locker room. However, these intangibles don’t help score goals. They don’t win tough playoff matches either. Plus, they certainly don’t warrant a protected contract spot on a team that needs more scoring help.
Every season, promising young players either sit in the stands or stay stuck in the minor leagues while older players with less impressive stats keep getting paid. This sends a bad message: performance doesn’t matter, only reputation does.
The Oilers’ chance to win a championship won’t last forever. McDavid and Draisaitl are in their best years now. Spending valuable salary cap money on sentimental contracts could mean the difference between winning the Cup and watching others celebrate.
Eventually, tough choices need to take the place of safe ones. Letting Janmark go might not be a popular move, but it could be necessary. In today’s NHL, loyalty without results isn’t effective leadership—it is setting yourself up for failure.
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