Oilers' McDavid Not Focused on Chasing Ducks in Pacific Standings

Edmonton's star forward says the team is just focused on winning games and getting into the playoffs.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 2:03pm

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Edmonton Oilers star Connor McDavid says the team is not focused on chasing down the Anaheim Ducks in the Pacific Division standings, despite being just 3 points behind them. McDavid says the Oilers are simply trying to win games and get into the playoffs, noting they've had success in the past starting on the road. The Oilers recently defeated the Ducks 4-2, with McDavid scoring a goal and adding two assists.

Why it matters

The Oilers and Ducks are battling for position in the tight Pacific Division race, with the Ducks currently holding a slim lead. McDavid's comments suggest the Oilers are more concerned with securing a playoff spot than worrying about their division rivals, which could indicate a confident, focused approach as they make their playoff push.

The details

The Oilers' 4-2 win over the Ducks on Saturday night was an important result, as it pulled them to within 3 points of Anaheim in the standings. McDavid opened the scoring for Edmonton in the second period and added two more assists to power the team to victory. Despite the close margin, McDavid downplayed the significance of chasing down the Ducks, saying the team is just focused on winning games and securing a playoff berth.

  • The Oilers defeated the Ducks 4-2 on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
  • The Oilers are 3 points behind the Ducks in the Pacific Division standings.

The players

Connor McDavid

The star forward for the Edmonton Oilers, who scored a goal and added two assists in the team's recent win over the Anaheim Ducks.

Zach Hyman

The Oilers forward who scored an empty-net goal in the final seconds to seal the win over the Ducks.

Leon Draisaitl

The Oilers forward who is expected to return from injury in time for the playoffs.

Gene Principe

The reporter who interviewed Connor McDavid after the Oilers' win over the Ducks.

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What they’re saying

“We're just trying to win games, that's it. Trying to win games and get in and play good hockey. If it happens, it happens. If not, it doesn't matter.”

— Connor McDavid, Oilers Forward

What’s next

The Oilers will next face the Seattle Kraken, Chicago Blackhawks, and Vegas Golden Knights before a tough stretch against the Colorado Avalanche and Vancouver Canucks. They will be hoping to maintain their position in the Pacific Division standings and secure a playoff spot.

The takeaway

McDavid's comments suggest the Oilers are taking a pragmatic, results-oriented approach to the final stretch of the regular season, focusing on winning games and securing a playoff berth rather than worrying about their division rivals. This mindset could serve them well as they look to make a deep playoff run.