Oilers Poised for Deep Playoff Run After Drawing Ducks in First Round

Edmonton's high-powered offense and Anaheim's defensive struggles could make for a short series

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:43pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a hockey game between the Edmonton Oilers and Anaheim Ducks, with the players, puck, and action broken down into overlapping geometric shapes and planes in vibrant colors.The Oilers' offensive firepower and the Ducks' defensive vulnerabilities could lead to a lopsided first-round playoff matchup.Anaheim Today

The Edmonton Oilers, despite finishing with 93 points and missing the Eastern Conference wild card, have been rewarded with a first-round matchup against the Anaheim Ducks, a team that struggled defensively down the stretch. The Oilers' league-leading power play and offensive firepower, led by Connor McDavid, could overwhelm the young and inexperienced Ducks, potentially setting up the Oilers for another deep playoff run.

Why it matters

The Oilers' path to the Western Conference Finals has opened up, as they avoid tougher first-round opponents. If they can get past the Ducks, they could be favored against teams like the Vegas Golden Knights or Los Angeles Kings in the later rounds, potentially setting up a showdown with the Colorado Avalanche in the Western Conference Finals.

The details

The Oilers' offense, led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, is built to punish teams that struggle defensively and on the penalty kill, which describes the Ducks. Anaheim's defensive issues and inexperience could be the difference-maker in the series, as the Oilers' high-powered attack looks to overwhelm the young Ducks squad.

  • The Oilers have found their rhythm late in the season, while the Ducks have struggled.
  • If Draisaitl returns to the lineup, it would only deepen the Oilers' already dangerous attack.

The players

Connor McDavid

The Oilers' superstar captain and one of the NHL's most dominant players, who is poised to produce at an elite level against the Ducks' porous defense.

Leon Draisaitl

The Oilers' star center, who could return from injury to further bolster Edmonton's high-powered offense.

Connor Ingram

The Oilers' goaltender, who has stabilized the team's net-minding and changed the narrative in goal.

Lukas Dostal

The Ducks' starting goaltender, who provides a solid last line of defense for the young Anaheim squad.

Jackson LaCombe

A young Ducks player who will be relied upon heavily to help the team make some noise in the playoffs.

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What’s next

If the Oilers can get past the Ducks, they could be favored against teams like the Vegas Golden Knights or Los Angeles Kings in the later rounds, potentially setting up a showdown with the Colorado Avalanche in the Western Conference Finals.

The takeaway

The Oilers have a golden opportunity to make another deep playoff run, as their high-powered offense and the Ducks' defensive struggles could make for a short first-round series. If Edmonton can capitalize on this favorable matchup, they could quickly position themselves as a Western Conference favorite.