McDavid: Oilers developed winning culture this season

Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid believes a change in attitude throughout the organization helped the club get back into the playoff mix this season.

"Management, coaching staff is all new, we brought in a couple new players, but I think it's just the vibe around the team that's changed," McDavid said on Sportsnet's #Ask31. "Everyone talks about that winning culture, and we didn't have that for a number of years.

"Just changing that whole culture and whole mindset I think has been huge."

After missing the postseason for the third time in four years last season, McDavid was vocal about his disappointment, saying his frustration level was "really high," and that it was "going to be a long summer" without playoff hockey.

The Oilers then used their time off to make some major changes. Edmonton hired longtime Detroit Red Wings executive Ken Holland as general manager, named Dave Tippett its new head coach, and brought in a series of new players, including goaltender Mike Smith and veteran winger James Neal.

The series of moves appeared to have worked, as the Oilers sat comfortably in second place in the Pacific Division with 83 points when the league went on pause March 12.

McDavid, of course, played a big role in the club's success, posting 97 points in 64 games to rank second in league scoring behind teammate Leon Draisaitl.