4 X-Factors for the Oilers in Their First-Round Series Against the Ducks

Edmonton Oilers look to continue their playoff streak against the Anaheim Ducks

Apr. 18, 2026 at 1:45pm

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The Edmonton Oilers are preparing for their seventh straight playoff appearance, but this time they'll be facing the Anaheim Ducks instead of their usual first-round opponent, the LA Kings. While Connor McDavid, Evan Bouchard, Zach Hyman, and a healthy Leon Draisaitl are expected to lead the way, the Oilers will need strong performances from four key X-factors to advance past the first round.

Why it matters

The Oilers have struggled through much of the 2025-26 season, but have been playing their best hockey lately, leading many to believe they can make another deep playoff run. However, they can't overlook the Ducks, who will provide a tough test in the first round. The four X-factors identified could be the difference-makers that propel the Oilers to the next round.

The details

The four X-factors are: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, who needs to be at his best with Leon Draisaitl potentially playing injured; Jake Walman, whose up-and-down season has left Oilers fans unsure about his $49 million contract, but who has shown flashes of excellence in the playoffs; Matt Savoie, the highly-skilled 22-year-old who has broken out late in the season and could provide a boost if he can translate that to the postseason; and Vasily Podkolzin, the physical forward who has become a key part of the Oilers' middle six after struggling to find a role with the Canucks.

  • The Oilers and Ducks will face off in the first round of the 2026 NHL playoffs.
  • The Oilers are making their seventh straight playoff appearance.

The players

Connor McDavid

The Oilers' superstar center who is expected to dominate in the postseason as he usually does.

Evan Bouchard

The Oilers' defenseman who also tends to excel in the playoffs.

Zach Hyman

A key forward for the Oilers who is likely to produce in the postseason.

Leon Draisaitl

The Oilers' star center whose injury status is uncertain, making him a wild card for the series.

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins

The veteran forward who needs to be at his best, especially if Draisaitl is limited.

Jake Walman

The Oilers defenseman whose up-and-down season has left fans unsure about his big contract, but who has shown playoff potential.

Matt Savoie

The highly-skilled 22-year-old forward who has broken out late in the season and could provide a boost in the playoffs.

Vasily Podkolzin

The physical forward who has become a key part of the Oilers' middle six after struggling to find a role with the Canucks.

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What’s next

The Oilers and Ducks will face off in the first round of the 2026 NHL playoffs, with the Oilers looking to continue their playoff streak and the Ducks hoping to pull off an upset.

The takeaway

The Oilers have the talent to make another deep playoff run, but they can't overlook the Ducks. If the four key X-factors - Nugent-Hopkins, Walman, Savoie, and Podkolzin - can step up and provide positive impacts, the Oilers will have a great chance of advancing past the first round.