Edmonton Oilers recent slump?

The Edmonton Oiles have only only won one game in their last six. With Comrie, Stone, Staios, and Souray out of the lineup with injuries/illness, the Oilers have had several difficulties. In recent news things may be getting worse with a speculated shoulder injury to Shawn Horcoff.

The Edmonton Oilers have had difficulties particularly with their defensive zone coverage. In the Oilers zone, the shooting lanes have been wide-open for opposing teams. Further, the Oilers have been consistently losing puck battles in their corners. Opposing players have been able to generate pressure down low, create a cycle, and drive to the Oilers net without much resistance.

Prior to the start of this season, the Oilers were known to have a wealth of offensive dmen, but were lacking in defensemen with size/grit, and defensive abilities. This year, Ladislav Smid has taken a big step forward to fill this roll. However, with Staios and Souray out while Strudwick and Chorney have drawn in, Smid's improvement alone isn't enough to balance this out.

Taylor Chorney's had some games that have been better than others. In the recent Oilers vs. Islanders game, it was not one of his better efforts. If either one of Chorney or Strudwick were in the lineup, the Oilers could manage. However, having both forces the Oilers to essentially hide two defensemen. Neither of the two are able to generate offense and both are certain to bleed goals against.