Gretzky Warns Oilers to Avoid Avalanche in Playoffs

NHL legend says Edmonton should aim to delay matchup with Colorado until later rounds

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Former NHL star Wayne Gretzky believes the Edmonton Oilers are in a strong position this season, but he offered one clear warning about the playoff picture. Gretzky said the Oilers should try to avoid facing the Colorado Avalanche in the first round of the playoffs, as the Avalanche have been one of the NHL's strongest teams this season.

Why it matters

The Oilers have reached the Stanley Cup Final in the past two seasons but have fallen short. Gretzky's advice highlights the challenge Edmonton could face against the dominant Avalanche if the two teams meet early in the playoffs, which could derail the Oilers' hopes of finally capturing the championship.

The details

Gretzky said the Oilers should not worry too much about their regular-season position, as "finishing one, two, or three doesn't matter." However, he pointed out that the "only thing you don't wanna do, you don't wanna finish in that one spot where you have to play Colorado in the first round." Gretzky believes that if the Oilers can "avoid them till the third round, get some momentum," they will be "in good shape." The Avalanche lead the Central Division with a 43-10-9 record and are led by star forward Nathan MacKinnon, who has 104 points. The Oilers, meanwhile, rely heavily on captain Connor McDavid, who leads the team with 35 goals and 108 points.

  • The Oilers currently sit third in the Pacific Division with a 31-25-8 record and 70 points.
  • The Avalanche lead the Central Division with a 43-10-9 record.

The players

Wayne Gretzky

A former NHL star and hockey legend who offered advice to the Edmonton Oilers.

Connor McDavid

The captain of the Edmonton Oilers, who leads the team with 35 goals and 108 points.

Nathan MacKinnon

The star forward for the Colorado Avalanche, who has 104 points this season.

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What they’re saying

“I wouldn't panic too much. Finishing one, two, or three doesn't matter. I look for the Oilers to have a nice run.”

— Wayne Gretzky

“The only thing you don't wanna do, you don't wanna finish in that one spot where you have to play Colorado in the first round. If you can avoid them till the third round, get some momentum. But I think the Oilers are in good shape right now, and they'll be fine.”

— Wayne Gretzky

What’s next

The Oilers will look to avoid finishing in a position that would match them up against the Avalanche in the first round of the playoffs.

The takeaway

Gretzky's warning highlights the challenge the Oilers could face against the dominant Avalanche if the two teams meet early in the playoffs, which could derail Edmonton's hopes of finally capturing the Stanley Cup championship after reaching the Finals in the past two seasons.