The Edmonton Oilers have consistently been discussed as a franchise with spectacular top-end talent, yet they have often been criticized for lacking the depth necessary for championship success. Over the past five years, the prevailing narratives have focused on their ability to score but a perceived deficiency in defensive capabilities, as well as concerns regarding their resilience against more rugged opponents during prolonged playoff series. However, this narrative has begun to shift as the Oilers make their second consecutive appearance in the Stanley Cup Final following a decisive 6-3 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game 5 of the Western Conference Final. Notably, this year the Oilers return with two significant advantages: a more balanced team in terms of depth and the benefit of home-ice advantage.

The skepticism surrounding the Oilers' supporting cast around star players Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl has not always been unfounded. Reflecting on the performance of the Edmonton teams in the 2020 and 2021 playoffs, one recalls how the outstanding scoring statistics from McDavid and Draisaitl were overshadowed by early postseason exits reliant on players like Josh Archibald, Jujhar Khaira, and Kailer Yamamoto. During that period, the Oilers' roster did not possess the necessary grit nor the cohesiveness to contend effectively with seasoned squads such as the Chicago Blackhawks and the skill-heavy Winnipeg Jets, leading to disappointing playoff performances where higher-seeded Edmonton teams secured only one victory out of eight playoff games played.

Subsequent seasons did not offer much improvement, as even though McDavid and Draisaitl maintained their historical production levels, the Oilers' championship aspirations were thwarted by formidable playoff foes like the Colorado Avalanche and the Vegas Golden Knights. The Avalanche's powerful offense overwhelmed Oilers' goaltenders Mikko Koskinen and Mike Smith during a four-game sweep in the 2022 Western Conference Final, while the Golden Knights showcased their physicality and strength to best the Oilers in a six-game second-round series the following year. Despite the high caliber of the teams that eliminated them from contention, doubts regarding the Oilers’ ability to compete persisted, especially into the 2024 playoffs where they experienced another Game 7 loss against the Florida Panthers after battling through the Los Angeles Kings and the Vancouver Canucks.

However, a turnaround emerged when the 2024-25 season unfolded in an unexpected manner. After a rough start, the Oilers found their stride. Despite initial setbacks, including a difficult series against the Kings, Edmonton made critical adjustments, switching goalies and tightening their defensive systems, which resulted in a successful sweep of the ensuing games. They continued to showcase improved resilience, with key performances in the second round that included impressive shutouts after losing their starting goaltender Calvin Pickard to injury. These developments indicated a positive change in the Oilers' competitive spirit and capability.

Nevertheless, concerns resurfaced after a shaky start in Game 1 of the third round against Dallas, prompting critics to reiterate long-held beliefs about the Oilers' defensive shortcomings. Comments from analysts soon filled the airwaves, questioning the team's capacity for success in the high-stakes environment of the playoffs. Yet, as the playoffs progressed, the Oilers demonstrated a newfound composure and effectiveness, with contributions from not just McDavid and Draisaitl but also from supporting players such as Kasperi Kapanen and John Klingberg. This cohesive effort ultimately propelled them into the Stanley Cup Final rematch against the Panthers, who had previously defeated them.

Reflecting on this matchup, McDavid shared his excitement about the opportunity to compete against the Panthers, acknowledging their prowess as a highly regarded team. As the series approaches, both teams have established themselves as formidable opponents, creating an intriguing narrative for the concluding chapters of the postseason.