The Edmonton Oilers have secured a spot in the NHL Western Conference Final after series victories over the Los Angeles Kings and the Vegas Golden Knights. Their postseason run has been marked by resilience, improved defensive play, and contributions from both star players and depth skaters. As they await their next opponent, the Dallas Stars or the Winnipeg Jets, the Oilers are positioned as one of the favorites to win the Western Conference and the Stanley Cup.
Betting Odds and Outlook
Following their advancement to the Western Conference Final, the Oilers have become the betting favorites to win the conference, with odds at -105, translating to an implied probability of just over 51%. According to ReviewCasino in Canada, the Dallas Stars are close behind at +100. Edmonton’s odds have shortened to +275 for the Stanley Cup, making them co-favorites alongside the Stars. The Florida Panthers and Carolina Hurricanes are also considered strong contenders.
Series Recap: Los Angeles Kings
Edmonton began their playoff journey facing the Los Angeles Kings, a team that finished ahead of them in the Pacific Division and held home-ice advantage. The Kings started strong, taking the first two games of the series. However, the Oilers responded with four consecutive wins to clinch the series in six games.
Game 3 was pivotal, with Edmonton overcoming a third-period deficit to score four unanswered goals and win 7-4. In Game 4, the Oilers again displayed resilience, tying the game late in the third period and winning overtime thanks to Leon Draisaitl’s goal. Edmonton’s defensive adjustments and improved special teams play were crucial as the series progressed. The Oilers limited the Kings’ opportunities, particularly on the power play, and their penalty kill became more effective. Game 6 ended with a 6-4 victory, sealing the series and marking the fourth consecutive season Edmonton has eliminated Los Angeles from the playoffs.
Series Recap: Vegas Golden Knights
In the second round, the Oilers faced the defending Pacific Division champion Vegas Golden Knights. Edmonton won the series 4-1, which was highlighted by a 1-0 overtime victory in Game 5 to close out the series. Kasperi Kapanen scored the decisive goal in overtime, capitalizing on a scramble in front of the Vegas net. Goaltender Stuart Skinner made 24 saves in the shutout, while the Oilers’ defense limited Vegas to just 13 shots through two periods and 22 overall.
Throughout the series, Edmonton demonstrated a more balanced attack. While the power play struggled on the road, the Oilers found ways to win at even strength and through contributions from their depth players. The defensive structure improved notably, with the team allowing two goals or fewer in three of the five games against Vegas.
Statistical Leaders
Leon Draisaitl has been a key figure for Edmonton, leading the team in postseason points. In the first round, he was particularly productive, including a four-point night in Game 4 against the Kings. Draisaitl contributed in the second round, scoring two goals and six points, including an overtime winner against Vegas.
Evan Bouchard has emerged as the leading goal scorer for the Oilers in the playoffs, while Connor McDavid leads in assists. Jake Walman holds the team’s best plus/minus rating, and Vasily Podkolzin leads in penalty minutes. The Oilers’ scoring has become more distributed than in the regular season, with secondary contributors stepping up in key moments.
Potential Opponents: Dallas Stars or Winnipeg Jets
The outcome of the Dallas Stars-Winnipeg Jets series will determine Edmonton’s next opponent. Dallas currently holds a 3-2 series lead. The Stars have been strong at home throughout the postseason and are favored to advance, with betting odds reflecting a 60.9% probability in their next matchup. The Jets, however, have shown resilience, most recently forcing a Game 6 with a 4-0 victory.
Both potential opponents present unique challenges. Dallas boasts a balanced offense and strong defensive play, anchored by goaltender Jake Oettinger and defenseman Miro Heiskanen. Conversely, Winnipeg relies on the goaltending of Connor Hellebuyck and a physical style of play. The Oilers will need to maintain their improved defensive structure and continue to receive contributions from throughout their lineup, regardless of which team they face.
Conclusion
The Edmonton Oilers’ path to the Western Conference Final has showcased their ability to adapt and overcome adversity. With their stars producing and secondary players stepping up, they have positioned themselves as serious contenders for the Stanley Cup. As they prepare for the next round, the Oilers will look to build on their momentum, with the betting markets reflecting growing confidence in their championship potential.