There is one more suit seated in the front row. It's worn by the President of Hockey Operations and General Manager, Ken Holland. A man who owns multiple Stanley Cup rings but would like to size up one or more pieces of jewelry for Edmonton. A patient, very well-liked thinker of the game whose patience paid off at the deadline. What the Oilers needed is what he brought to the team in Ekholm and Bjugstad.
To round out the front row is the leadership group. One 'C' and three 'A's. Leon Draisaitl, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Darnell Nurse and Connor McDavid. All boasting career highs. A fab four of letter wearers who ooze leadership, accountability, understanding and a drive to be the best. When these four talk, people listen. Incredible pieces to build your photo and team around.
As you move into the second row, we start with the staff. Kaite Doyle is the Director of Team Services. She is one of the guys, so to speak. Treated with the respect she has earned in making sure every plane, bus, meal and hotel stay goes as perfect as possible. From a public relations standpoint, there is the tandem of Jamie Cartmell and Shawn May. Kind men who do their best to give us everything we (media) ask for from September until the last game is played.
Dr. Naidu heads up a team of doctors who, by day, might have their own patients, but when necessary by day and always by night their focus is crystal clear in keeping players healthy. They make their house calls at Rogers Place and 31 other NHL rinks. When the expected happens and injuries occur, the emphasis to get a player to make their return safely becomes a skill each of them possesses.
The first players you'll see have become a dedicated duo of blueliners. The two-some of Evan Bouchard and Ekholm has been phenomenal. The veteran presence of one has benefited the maturation of the other. Maybe opposites do attract and, in this case, prosper as a pair.
Next are a pair of wingers who thrive on the outside of their centremen. Zach Hyman having a career-best season. Shattering goal, assist and point totals. All the while challenging the two netminders for nicest guy on the team. Evander Kane might not win a nice guy contest if his opponents are voting. However, in his own room guaranteed it feels nice to have him on your side.