EDMONTON - The Edmonton Oilers are set to begin their quest for a third consecutive Stanley Cup final appearance, hosting the Anaheim Ducks on Monday. Captain Connor McDavid highlighted the team's strong finish to the regular season, securing home-ice advantage with a 6-1 victory over the Vancouver Canucks.
"We wanted to start (the playoffs) here at home and give ourselves the best chance in the first round," McDavid stated. The Oilers closed the season with a 7-2-2 record in their final 11 games, a performance veteran defenceman Darnell Nurse described as their best hockey "when our back was against the wall."
The team is buoyed by the expected return of star forward Leon Draisaitl during the opening round. McDavid noted the team's tenacity in surviving key absences, underscoring their resilience and the importance of home ice.
"He looks amazing, he looks really, really strong," McDavid said of Draisaitl's recovery. "It's a credit to him and our staff here."
Oilers defenceman Mattias Ekholm expressed confidence in the group's ability to contend, citing their performance over recent seasons. The Oilers will face the Anaheim Ducks, who have not made the playoffs since 2018. Head coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledged the Ducks' potential danger and skill.
McDavid, who finished the season with 138 points and his sixth Art Ross title, believes the Oilers are prepared for another deep playoff run. He emphasized the team's belief and playoff experience.
Evan Bouchard also had a standout regular season, leading defensemen with 95 points, a performance that places him among elite blueliners in NHL history.