The Edmonton Oilers have long been characterized by their impressive top-end talent yet perceived shortcomings in depth. Critiques have included concerns over the team's defensive capabilities and the lack of grit necessary to endure physically demanding playoff series. Those narratives have persisted around the franchise for multiple seasons, but the landscape has shifted. Following a recent 6-3 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game 5 of the Western Conference Final, the Oilers are heading back to the Stanley Cup Final for the second consecutive year.

This time, the Oilers arrive with notable differences. They boast a more balanced and deeper roster, alongside the advantage of home ice. The previous criticisms regarding the supporting cast around stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl have not been unfounded, especially when reflecting on past seasons. The Oilers' performances in the 2020 and 2021 playoffs saw shining numbers from McDavid and Draisaitl overshadowed by early postseason exits, as the team struggled to compete against seasoned rivals like the Chicago Blackhawks and Winnipeg Jets, managing only one win across eight games in those series.

The subsequent seasons did not yield better results, despite McDavid and Draisaitl maintaining their status as one of the league's top duos. Their efforts fell short against formidable opponents in the Colorado Avalanche and Vegas Golden Knights, with the Avalanche overpowering the Oilers in a four-game sweep during the Western Conference Final in 2022. In 2023, the Golden Knights showcased their physical prowess in a six-game second-round series victory. As 2024 unfolded, concerns about the Oilers' playoff resilience continued, especially as they finished third in the Pacific Division and appeared destined for early-round elimination. However, the Oilers surprised many critics this time around, showing resilience by sweeping their following playoff series against the Los Angeles Kings and the Stars, overcoming challenges with strategic shifts and standout performances from their roster, signaling a transition for the franchise.