The Edmonton Oilers have long been characterized by their impressive top-end talent, yet a recurring narrative has emerged over the past few seasons regarding their lack of depth. Critics have noted that while the Oilers can score with any team, their back-end defense has been a concern during playoff runs. Furthermore, observations have been made about the team's finesse lacking the physicality necessary to contend with tougher opponents in a prolonged series. However, this narrative is set for a change; following a decisive 6-3 victory against the Dallas Stars in Game 5 of the Western Conference Final, the Oilers are making a consecutive appearance in the Stanley Cup Final. This season, the team boasts a deeper and more balanced roster, complemented by home-ice advantage.

Reflecting on the past, the criticisms surrounding the supporting cast around superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl have occasionally been justified. During the 2020 and 2021 seasons, despite extraordinary performances from the duo, the support around them struggled during crucial playoffs, leading to disappointing first-round exits. Edmonton faced formidable opponents such as the battle-tested Chicago Blackhawks and a strong Winnipeg Jets team, ultimately winning only one of eight playoff games during those years. Subsequent seasons saw the McDavid-Draisaitl pair continue their record-breaking performances, yet their pursuit of the Cup was thwarted by eventual champions like the Colorado Avalanche and the Vegas Golden Knights, who each outperformed them in critical playoff series.

As the Oilers progressed through the 2024-25 season, their trajectory seemed to align with past disappointments, finishing third in the Pacific Division and sixth in the conference. However, a notable transformation took place during the playoffs. Rather than crumbling under pressure, the team showcased resilience by switching goaltenders and tightening their defensive systems, leading to a remarkable sweep of the Los Angeles Kings in the first round. Following an injury to Calvin Pickard, the Oilers remained undeterred, finishing the second round against the Golden Knights with back-to-back shutouts. Even after a rough start in the third round against Dallas, where a two-goal lead was lost, analysts and fans noticed a shift in the team's mentality. With contributions from players like Kasperi Kapanen, John Klingberg, and Corey Perry, the Oilers now possess a more robust lineup. As they prepare to face the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final, McDavid expresses excitement at facing a team that previously defeated them, highlighting the competitive spirit and the potential for a memorable championship run.