Continuing with our look at predictions for the 2012-2013 NHL season (providing there is one), we look at the Edmonton Oilers.  Last season the Oilers finished 29th overall and ended up winning the draft lottery in which they selected Sarnia Sting Russian sniper Nail Yakupov.  They Oilers are loaded up front with young talent but it is their goaltending and defense that needs attention. Will the youthful forwards be enough to get the Oilers into the playoffs for the first since losing in game seven of the Stanley Cup final in 2006?

30 Teams in 30 Posts: Edmonton Oilers

The Oilers had a great start to the 2011-2012 season only to run into injuries and be out of the playoff picture in the Western Conference by January. Here is the Oilers record from last season.

2011-12 Finish	Team	GP	W	L	OT	PTS	Win %	Goals per Game	Goals Against per Game
29	Edmonton Oilers	82	32	40	10	74	0.451	2.52	2.83

Trending:  UP

We think the Edmonton Oilers will improve upon last years performance but will still be hard pressed to make the playoffs in the West.

Key Additions

• Ralph Kruger – head coach
• Nail Yakupov – forward
• Justin Schultz  – defense

Notable Departures

• Cam Barker – defense

2012-13 Finish	Team	GP	W	L	OT	PTS.	Goals per Game	Goals Against per Game
18	Edmonton Oilers	82	34	38	10	88	2.55	2.6

So a noticeable improvement but no playoffs unless the Oilers get a solid goaltender.