The Edmonton Oilers enter Tuesday’s Game 1 of their second-round series against the Vegas Golden Knights with momentum and confidence after dispatching the Los Angeles Kings in six games, showcasing the elite firepower and high-end talent that has made them one of the most feared offensive teams in the NHL. Led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, who combined for 21 points in the first round, the Oilers demonstrated once again that their top-end production is unmatched when it comes to creating scoring chances off the rush, controlling the puck on the power play, and capitalizing in high-leverage moments. McDavid’s blend of acceleration and vision continues to set him apart as the league’s most dangerous transition player, while Draisaitl’s lethal release and strength around the net make him a nightmare matchup for any defensive pairing. Adding to that offensive mix is defenseman Evan Bouchard, who contributed four goals in the opening round and anchors a top power play unit that remains the most dangerous in the NHL, boasting precision puck movement and elite finishing ability. However, Edmonton’s greatest vulnerability remains in goal, where Calvin Pickard and Stuart Skinner have split duties, with Pickard claiming all four wins and holding a 2.93 GAA, while Skinner faltered with a 6.11 GAA in the team’s two losses, creating a goaltending debate heading into the second round.

Pickard is expected to start Game 1 given his more consistent performance, but he’ll face a deeper and more structured opponent in Vegas, which will test his composure and rebound control. Defensively, the Oilers continue to show improvement with Mattias Ekholm providing stability and mentorship alongside Bouchard, while Darnell Nurse brings a physical presence, though defensive breakdowns and lapses in coverage still occasionally haunt this group. Edmonton’s penalty kill showed signs of resilience in the first round but will be challenged by a Golden Knights power play that can move the puck effectively and pressure the net with size and skill. The Oilers’ ability to draw penalties, push the pace, and generate early offense will be key to dictating the series tempo, especially on the road, where silencing the crowd and avoiding undisciplined penalties becomes more critical. Their 48-34 record against the spread this season reflects their tendency to outperform betting expectations, especially when their stars take over games, and that formula will need to hold against a Vegas team built to wear opponents down. For Edmonton to succeed, they must leverage their elite talent, maintain defensive discipline, and get competent, steady goaltending—because if their offense alone is forced to carry the load, they risk being outmaneuvered by a deeper, more balanced Golden Knights roster. Still, with McDavid and Draisaitl in peak form and a power play that can flip a game in a matter of minutes, the Oilers are not just a dangerous underdog—they’re a legitimate Stanley Cup threat if they can round out the edges of their game and match Vegas physically and mentally over the course of a seven-game series.