From Underdog to Breakout Hero: How Picks Came Up Big for the Oilers This Season and Captivated Hockey Fans Everywhere
July 9, 2025 – Edmonton, AB
In a season where expectations were sky-high for the Edmonton Oilers, few could have predicted that one of the biggest stories would come not from their established superstars, but from an unexpected breakout performer known simply as “Picks.” Once considered a depth player with little chance of making the final roster, Picks has emerged as a fan favorite and a critical piece of the Oilers’ success this season.
From training camp underdog to playoff game-changer, Picks’ journey is the kind of underdog tale that defines sports legend. Not only did he help spark momentum at key moments during the regular season, but his unrelenting energy, creative playmaking, and clutch performances became must-watch hockey — captivating fans across Canada and beyond.
Humble Beginnings
Picks, whose real name is Jackson “Picks” Pickering, entered training camp last fall as a relatively unknown prospect. Drafted late and with little fanfare, he was viewed by most analysts as a long-term project. The Oilers had their stars: Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Zach Hyman. There simply wasn’t room — or so it seemed — for a raw, undersized winger with limited top-level experience.
But Picks had something intangible — a motor that never stopped running, a nose for the puck, and a chip on his shoulder the size of Alberta. Coaches were impressed early by his work ethic and willingness to do the little things right.
“He showed up to camp looking like he had something to prove,” said Head Coach Kris Knoblauch. “Every drill, every scrimmage — he treated it like a Game 7. That kind of hunger is impossible to ignore.”
Making the Roster — And Making an Impact
After a surprising preseason showing that included 3 goals and 4 assists in five games, Picks earned a spot on the Oilers’ opening night roster. By November, he was logging significant minutes on the third line and contributing on the penalty kill.
“He brought energy to every shift,” said veteran defenseman Darnell Nurse. “The way he forechecked, the way he battled for pucks — it was contagious.”
Picks’ offensive output began to climb as well. By midseason, he had already surpassed expectations with 12 goals and 18 assists. But it wasn’t just his stats that caught the eye — it was the when and how he delivered. Overtime winners, shorthanded breakaways, clutch third-period efforts — Picks had a flair for the dramatic.
Winning Over the Fans
As his legend grew on the ice, so too did his popularity off it. Social media exploded with Picks-themed memes, merchandise, and tributes. Local bars in Edmonton offered “Picks Pints” on game nights, and kids in Oilers jerseys began adding duct-taped “#71” numbers on their backs.
Perhaps the most viral moment of the season came in January, when Picks scored a no-look backhand goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs, then celebrated by pointing to the crowd and miming a draft pick being thrown into the air — a nod to his late-round selection.
“That was for everyone who said I wouldn’t even make it to the league,” Picks said postgame. “I’ve been underestimated my whole life. This isn’t new.”
Playoff Brilliance
While Picks had impressed during the regular season, it was the playoffs where he truly cemented his legacy.
In a tense second-round series against the Colorado Avalanche, with the series tied 2-2 and Game 5 heading into overtime, it was Picks who delivered the dagger. After stealing the puck in the neutral zone, he split two defenders and roofed a shot over the goaltender’s glove hand. Rogers Place erupted.
“He’s not just a role player anymore,” said teammate Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. “He’s a game-breaker.”
Picks finished the postseason with 8 goals and 11 assists in 19 games, helping propel the Oilers to their first Stanley Cup Final appearance in nearly two decades. Though the team ultimately fell short against a red-hot New Jersey Devils squad, Picks’ performance became one of the defining narratives of the playoffs.
The Future Looks Bright
Now entering the offseason, Picks has gone from unknown rookie to a foundational piece of the Oilers’ future. Management is reportedly preparing a multi-year contract extension to ensure the young star remains in Edmonton for years to come.
“You dream of these kinds of stories,” said GM Ken Holland. “Late-round pick. Underrated. Works his way up and becomes a critical part of the team. That’s the stuff of legends.”
Picks, ever humble, remains focused on the work ahead.
“This was just the beginning,” he said at the team’s year-end press conference. “I’m proud of what we did, but there’s still one more thing I want — a Cup.”
Final Thoughts
In a league often dominated by household names and million-dollar contracts, Jackson “Picks” Pickering reminded everyone what makes hockey great — heart, hustle, and belief.
He may have started the season as a long shot, but by year’s end, Picks wasn’t just a player — he was a movement. And if this year was any indication, his story is far from over.
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