Training camp kicked off yesterday, and Oilers players and staff met with the media today.
The biggest thing that came out of day 2 of training camp was the comment made by Todd McLellan, stating that the team is looking to increase Ryan Stome’s shot totals. McLellan was comparing Strome to Jordan Eberle, the winger traded to the Islanders in exchange for Strome. The coach gave Strome the edge in the size and strength department, but said that Eberle shot the puck a lot more.
Strome had 30 points in 69 games last season, with a career low 1.65 shots per game. Strome’s most successful season came in 2014-15, when he had 50 points in 81 games. During that season, he had 2.21 shots per game, 0.56 shots more than 2016-17. During that season, he had a ~9% shooting percentage, compared to ~11% shooting percentage this season. He had 17 goals in 2014-15, and just 13 this season, signifing that a lower SPG could be the reason why he has been less productive. If Strome had had 175 shots last season, compared to the 116 he really did, he would of scored 19 goals, assuming his shooting percentage would of remained the same. Unfortunately, it likely would not, so 17 goals is a better estimation. That’s a 4 goal increase, just from getting more shots. If Strome plays the majority of the season with McDavid, he could get 200+ shots, and possibly score 20-25 goals. McDavid will also boost his assists, as Strome just has to get it to the speedy forward and he’ll create tons of scoring chances.
Expect a breakout season from Strome. I’m predicting 20+ goals and 25-35 assists, along with a much higher SPG total.
CatchThatPuck 