Can McDavid Carry the Oilers in NHL Playoffs?

Pacific Division seeding scenarios and full first-round preview analyzed

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:06pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game, with players and the ice reduced to abstract shapes and angles, conveying the intensity and movement of the sport.The NHL playoffs promise high-stakes drama and unpredictable outcomes as teams battle for the Stanley Cup.Boise Today

The 2026 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs are set to begin this Saturday, and this episode of the Locked On NHL podcast dives deep into all 8 first-round matchups with detailed predictions and statistical analysis. The focus is on whether Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid can single-handedly carry his team through a tough Pacific Division field.

Why it matters

The Oilers are led by Hart Trophy-winning center Connor McDavid, considered by many to be the best player in the NHL. However, the Oilers have struggled with consistency and depth issues all season, raising questions about whether McDavid can elevate the team on his own in the playoffs.

The details

The episode breaks down the various seeding scenarios in the Pacific Division, where the Oilers, Vegas Golden Knights, and Los Angeles Kings are all jockeying for position. It then provides in-depth previews and predictions for all 8 first-round playoff series, analyzing key matchups, advanced stats, and X-factors that could determine the outcomes.

  • The 2026 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs begin this Saturday, April 19th.

The players

Connor McDavid

The superstar center for the Edmonton Oilers, considered by many to be the best player in the NHL.

Vegas Golden Knights

A Pacific Division rival of the Oilers, also competing for playoff positioning.

Los Angeles Kings

Another Pacific Division team vying for a high seed in the playoffs.

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What they’re saying

“McDavid is the engine that makes the Oilers go, but they'll need more from their supporting cast if they want to make a deep playoff run.”

— Analyst

The takeaway

The Oilers' playoff fate rests heavily on the shoulders of Connor McDavid, the league's most dominant player. However, the team's lack of depth and supporting talent could ultimately limit how far McDavid can carry them in the postseason.