The Edmonton Oilers have garnered attention for possessing exceptional top-end talent, yet have frequently faced criticism regarding their depth and playoff readiness. The prevailing narrative over the last several years has often centered on their ability to compete for championships, with prevailing thoughts suggesting they fall short in crucial areas necessary for postseason success. However, the narrative surrounding the franchise is shifting. The Oilers have returned to the Stanley Cup Final for the second consecutive year following a decisive 6-3 victory against the Dallas Stars in Game 5 of the Western Conference Final. They enter this high-stakes series with two significant advantages this year: a deeper, more balanced roster and home-ice advantage.

Critics have long pointed to a perceived lack of adequate support for superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Indeed, there have been times when this critique was justified, notably in the 2020 and 2021 playoffs, when despite impressive performances from the duo, the Oilers' postseason aspirations hinged on less impactful players like Josh Archibald, Jujhar Khaira, and Kailer Yamamoto. The result was disappointment, as the Oilers struggled against stronger opponents, leading to swift first-round exits. In the following seasons, despite the continued excellence of the McDavid-Draisaitl combination, their playoff journeys were once more halted by eventual champions Colorado and Vegas, illustrating the ongoing challenges that the team faced on their quest for a title.

The 2024-2025 season presented a different storyline, however. Rather than succumbing to an early setback, as seen in Game 1 against Los Angeles, the Oilers displayed resilience by switching goalies, tightening their systems, and embarking on a winning streak. Criticism resurfaced when a strong lead evaporated in the early rounds; yet, this season's Oilers have demonstrated a profound transformation in their approach. Commentators have noted this change, with analyst Ray Ferraro highlighting the team's significant improvement following earlier struggles in Los Angeles. As they prepare to face the highly skilled Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final, McDavid and Draisaitl's brilliance remains a critical component of the team’s aspirations. Both players continue to enhance their legacies in pursuit of a championship, supported by effective contributions from players throughout the roster, marking a pivotal moment for the Oilers in their quest for a title.