The Anaheim Ducks arrive in Edmonton riding one of the best stretches of the midseason, having won their last five games entering this matchup with confidence and momentum that any road team would covet. Anaheim’s recent surge has been driven by a renewed commitment to timely scoring, improved puck management, and a willingness to stay competitive in all three zones. Even when facing adversity — such as being outshot or trailing early — the Ducks have found ways to respond, showcasing resilience and depth that has kept them in many tight contests. This confidence has translated into covering the spread in each of their last five games, a streak that speaks to both recent success and an ability to exceed expectations on the road. Offensively, Anaheim has benefited from balanced scoring contributions. While they don’t boast the same star power as Edmonton, the Ducks compensate through collective effort, opportunistic rush chances, and sustained pressure in their offensive zone when the opportunity arises. Young players like Leo Carlsson and emerging scorers have found chemistry that boosts Anaheim’s attack, complementing veteran performers and creating an attack that can generate offense in clusters. The power play has shown flashes of productivity, especially when the Ducks win puck battles below the hash marks and create second-chance opportunities off rebounds — crucial factors when facing a high-tempo Oilers penalty kill.

Defensively, Anaheim has tightened up, limiting high-danger chances and forcing opponents into perimeter shooting opportunities. This disciplined structure, paired with timely saves from their goaltender, has helped keep games close and allow Anaheim’s offense to secure late goals or extra-time opportunities. On the road, maintaining defensive focus while creating offensive transition chances will be key; if Anaheim can capitalize on turnovers and sustain pressure through neutral zone play, it stands a chance to keep this game competitive against a potent Edmonton attack. Special teams and situational play may be decisive. Staying out of the penalty box and executing in power-play opportunities could swing the momentum in Anaheim’s favor — particularly if they can prevent Edmonton from gaining extended offensive shifts. With confidence high and recent results trending upward, the Ducks enter this Pacific Division contest with a belief they can compete with and challenge favorites, making them a dangerous opponent in Edmonton even if they’re technically the underdog on the sheet.