The Edmonton Oilers have long been characterized by their impressive top-tier talent, but the accompanying narrative has often highlighted a perceived lack of championship depth. Critics have noted that while the Oilers can score with any team, they frequently fall short defensively when it comes to performing in the playoffs. As a result, the prevailing sentiment over the last five years has centered around whether the team can compete effectively in a grueling playoff series against rugged opponents. However, the narrative is beginning to shift as the Oilers have returned to the Stanley Cup Final for the second consecutive year, following a commanding 6-3 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game 5 of the Western Conference Final. This time, the Oilers come equipped with a more balanced team and the advantage of home ice.

The questions about the supporting cast surrounding superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl have not been entirely unfounded. Reflecting on previous seasons, particularly in 2020 and 2021, the outstanding performances of the duo often faded into memory as the playoffs unfolded, with the team relying too heavily on less impactful players such as Josh Archibald, Jujhar Khaira, and Kailer Yamamoto. Unsurprisingly, the Oilers faced disappointing early exits during those playoffs, managing to win only one out of eight postseason games against teams like the Chicago Blackhawks and the Winnipeg Jets. Subsequent seasons did not bring relief either, as despite the historic scoring output from McDavid and Draisaitl, the team’s championship aspirations were thwarted by powerhouses like Colorado and Vegas.

As the Oilers advanced through the playoffs this year, they displayed a significant change in their approach. After a challenging start in the postseason against Los Angeles, where they endured a 12-goal onslaught, they regrouped—switching goalies and tightening their defensive systems. This adaptability allowed them to achieve a remarkable sweep of Games 3 through 6. Similarly, in the second round against Vegas, an injury to goalie Calvin Pickard appeared detrimental, yet the Oilers maintained their composure and closed out the series with consecutive shutouts from Stuart Skinner. Despite a rocky start in the third round against Dallas, the storyline of the Oilers being unable to contend defensively persisted. However, recent performances suggest a transformation within the team, evidenced by contributions from players beyond just the stars. Ultimately, as the Oilers prepare for the Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers, they appear more equipped than ever to meet the challenges ahead, with McDavid expressing enthusiasm for the rematch against a team that has previously bested them.