The Edmonton Oilers have long been characterized by their spectacular top-end talent, particularly through the performances of star players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. However, narratives surrounding the franchise have often focused on a perceived lack of depth and defensive capability necessary for a championship run. These sentiments have been prevalent over the past five years, but the current season marks a significant shift in this narrative. The Oilers have made their way back to the Stanley Cup Final for the second consecutive year, following a decisive 6-3 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game 5 of the Western Conference Final.

This year's incarnation of the Oilers features notable improvements: a deeper and more balanced roster, along with home-ice advantage in the upcoming championship series. Critics have frequently pointed out that the support surrounding McDavid and Draisaitl had not been up to par, particularly during the team's playoff performances in previous seasons. During the years 2020 and 2021, high-scoring efforts from the dynamic duo often fell short as the team struggled to compete in the postseason against teams such as the Chicago Blackhawks and Winnipeg Jets, leading to disappointing first-round exits.

Subsequent seasons saw slight improvements, yet the Oilers faced challenges in advancing beyond the playoffs. Despite boasting one of the highest-scoring partnerships in the NHL, the McDavid-Draisaitl duo found itself thwarted by eventually victorious teams like the Colorado Avalanche and the Vegas Golden Knights. Recent playoff appearances have often ended in frustration, with the Oilers experiencing a Game 7 loss to the Florida Panthers in June 2024. The 2024-25 season began with struggles, but instead of succumbing to the pressures of the postseason, the Oilers embraced a change in mentality. After a rocky start, they regrouped and tightened their defensive systems to secure victories. The narrative around this team is evolving as they prepare to face the Panthers again, this time with renewed confidence and determination.