The Edmonton Oilers have long been characterized by their impressive top-end talent, frequently cited for their lack of depth required for championship success. Over the years, repeated narratives have emerged suggesting that while the Oilers can score with any team in the league, they often have faced challenges with their defensive and goaltending capabilities. For those following the franchise over the last several seasons, these critiques have been all too familiar. However, a shift appears to be underway.

After a decisive 6-3 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game 5 of the Western Conference Final, the Oilers have returned to the Stanley Cup Final for the second consecutive year. This time around, they tout significant improvements: a more balanced and deeper roster, as well as home-ice advantage. The previous criticisms regarding the supporting cast around superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl have pointed to valid concerns, recalling disappointing playoff performances in recent years. Edmonton's struggles in the 2020 and 2021 seasons featured early exits against the more seasoned Chicago Blackhawks and the deeper Winnipeg Jets. Despite the extraordinary individual achievements of McDavid and Draisaitl, those teams lacked the necessary depth to compete during the playoffs ultimately resulting in one win out of eight games in first-round matchups.

The 2022 and 2023 seasons saw the Oilers continue to face challenges in their playoff aspirations, falling to eventual champions: the Colorado Avalanche and the Vegas Golden Knights. In those matchups, despite the historic performances of their star duo, they encountered roadblocks that led to discouraging playoff runs. The narrative persisted into the 2024 season, where the Oilers experienced a tough playoff journey eventually losing in a Game 7 against the Florida Panthers. Nevertheless, the Oilers adapted during these trials; in the ongoing campaign, they responded to adversity differently than before, showcasing a newfound resilience that had frequently eluded them.

Despite initial setbacks in their playoff opener against the Los Angeles Kings, where they faced a challenging two-goal deficit, the Oilers managed to recalibrate their approach, culminating in a solid series win. They transitioned goaltenders, refined their systems, and found success in their next three games. Similarly, they overcame obstacles in the second round against Vegas, leaning on their goaltending depth and displaying remarkable defensive fortitude. This transformation has altered the prevailing outlook on the team, prompting analysts to re-evaluate their potential. Observation from experts acknowledges a fundamental shift in their team dynamics as they embark on their rematch against the Panthers. With McDavid’s generational talent on full display and Draisaitl's scoring proficiency, the Oilers appear better equipped to contend, rendering this year's Stanley Cup Final a highly anticipated event. As momentum builds, McDavid himself expressed excitement about the impending matchup, acknowledging the strength of the Panthers while reflecting on the opportunity this final presents. The Oilers look poised for a compelling playoff run, driven by a more robust supporting cast and the ambition to reclaim their place atop the NHL.