Keith's Oilers Turning Point

On March 23rd, the Hockey Hall of Fame revealed its 2025 class on June 24th, including four

former NHL stars, Zaden Okara, Duncan Keith, Alexander Mogilny, and Joe Thorden.

Keith joins an elite group as just the 10th Edmonton Oiler in the hall.

Keith built his legend over 16 seasons with the Chicago Black Hawks, winning three Stanley

Cups and earning two Norris trophies as the league's top defenseman.

Earlier this week, his induction spotlighted a forgotten chapter, his trade to Edmonton

on July 12th, 2021, so he could play closer to Family in Western Canada.

Oiler's fans barely recall Keith's single season there, but it mattered.

The team lacked playoff experience despite stars like Conor McDavid and Leon Dryzidle,

dominating regular seasons.

Keith brought calm leadership, mentored young defenseman Evan Bouchard, and played heavy

minutes.

That year Edmonton posted 104 points and made its deepest playoff run in 16 years, beating

Los Angeles and Calgary before falling, to Colorado.

Keith suited up for all 16 postseason games, blocking shots and steadying the group.

Four years before Keith arrived, the Oilers won zero playoff series, since he left they've

claimed nine.

As they chased the cup after recent final losses, his brief stent looks like the turning

point that steadyed the ship for good.

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