In a move that has sent waves of excitement through the hockey world, the Edmonton Oilers have officially signed former legendary manager Glen Sather—affectionately known as “Slats”—to a five-year executive advisory deal. The 81-year-old Hall of Famer, who helped architect the Oilers’ golden dynasty of the 1980s, is returning to the organization with a bold, strategic vision aimed at restoring Edmonton to its former glory.
For many fans, it’s nothing short of a dream come true.
A Legacy Rekindled
Sather, who served as head coach and general manager of the Oilers from 1977 to 2000, is widely credited with building one of the greatest teams in NHL history. Under his guidance, the Oilers captured five Stanley Cups between 1984 and 1990, powered by Hall of Famers such as Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, Paul Coffey, Jari Kurri, and Grant Fuhr.
Now, after nearly two decades with the New York Rangers in various leadership roles, Sather returns to the team where he forged his legacy. His return is symbolic—not just of nostalgia, but of ambition.
A Bold Vision for the Future
In a joint press conference held this morning at Rogers Place, Oilers CEO Jeff Jackson introduced Sather as “a pillar of hockey knowledge and vision,” confirming that the veteran executive would be deeply involved in hockey operations, talent development, and long-term team culture planning.
“I’ve been watching from afar, and I see the potential,” Sather told reporters. “Connor McDavid is the best player in the world. Leon Draisaitl is right behind him. There’s a foundation here to build something truly special—not just a winning team, but a dynasty.”
Sources close to the organization say Sather’s five-year plan includes:
- Establishing a “Dynasty Culture” within the team, with an emphasis on leadership development, accountability, and off-ice discipline.
- Revamping the scouting and development pipeline to better identify and groom elite-level talent in the mold of the 1980s Oilers.
- Empowering a new generation of hockey minds, including potential mentorship programs for former players looking to transition into management roles.
- Bridging the gap between past and present, by bringing in alumni like Messier and Kevin Lowe as part-time advisors and mentors.
A Vote of Confidence in McDavid & Draisaitl
The timing of the deal is also crucial. With speculation swirling about Leon Draisaitl’s future as he enters the final year of his contract, and with Connor McDavid’s long-term plans still uncertain, the Oilers’ front office hopes Sather’s presence sends a message: Edmonton is serious about winning—now and in the years to come.
“This is the best news we could hope for,” said Oilers captain Connor McDavid. “Glen’s a legend, and knowing he believes in this group means a lot. We’re all-in.”
Fanbase Rejuvenated
Reaction across Oil Country has been overwhelmingly positive. Within minutes of the announcement, #SlatsIsBack began trending on social media, and ticket demand for the upcoming season surged.
“This feels like the final piece of the puzzle,” said longtime Oilers fan Michelle Broderick. “We’ve got the talent, we’ve got the heart—and now we’ve got the brains behind the dynasty back in the building.”
Looking Ahead
While Glen Sather will not be handling day-to-day GM responsibilities, his influence will be undeniable. Working alongside current GM Ken Holland (whose own contract runs through 2026), Sather will serve as a senior architect in shaping the organization’s future both on and off the ice.
As the puck drops on the 2025–26 NHL season, the message is clear: The Edmonton Oilers are not just aiming to contend—they’re aiming to dominate.
And with “Slats” back behind the scenes, that bold vision just might become reality.
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