The Edmonton Oilers' 2025 Stanley Cup Playoff journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster, embodying the saying that they never do things the easy way. From facing elimination early in the first round to battling back from a 3-0 deficit in the Stanley Cup Final, the Oilers have consistently put their fans through the wringer, showcasing resilience and a knack for overcoming adversity.
Their playoff run began with a stumble, losing the first two games against the Los Angeles Kings. With injuries plaguing key players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl towards the end of the regular season, their road back to the Final seemed uncertain. However, the Oilers regrouped, winning 12 of their next 14 games, demonstrating the depth and determination that would define their playoff campaign.
Throughout the playoffs, the Oilers have displayed a remarkable ability to come back from behind. This resilience was particularly evident in Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers, where they overcame a 3-0 first-period deficit to win 5-4 in overtime. This victory marked the first time since 1919 that a team had overcome a three-goal deficit on the road to win a Stanley Cup Final game. They are known as the comeback kings of the 2025 playoffs with eight come-from-behind wins.
A key factor in the Oilers' playoff success has been the stellar performance of Leon Draisaitl. He has etched his name in NHL history by scoring a record-breaking four overtime goals in a single postseason. Draisaitl's clutch goals have not only won games but have also elevated the emotional stakes of the tournament, earning him the moniker of "overtime king." His ability to deliver in high-pressure moments has been instrumental in the Oilers' journey to the Final. Draisaitl and McDavid are currently tied for the 2025 playoff scoring lead, each with 33 points in 21 games. Draisaitl's 11 goals are the most on the Oilers and second only to Sam Bennett (15) in the 2025 playoffs.
Goaltending has also been a significant storyline for the Oilers. After struggling in the early games of the Final, Stuart Skinner was replaced by Calvin Pickard. Pickard's performance provided a spark for the team, leading to a change in the Panthers' offensive approach. His presence in net presents a different challenge for the Panthers, as his strengths and tendencies vary significantly from Skinner's. The Oilers didn't just change their goalie when Calvin Pickard replaced Stuart Skinner after the first period of Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final. They also changed how the Florida Panthers need to attack their goaltending.
Despite their resilience and individual brilliance, the Oilers have faced challenges throughout the playoffs. They have often fallen behind early in games, forcing them to play catch-up. Coach Kris Knoblauch has emphasized the importance of scoring early to alleviate pressure and control the game's tempo. The Panthers have outscored the Oilers 7-0 in the first period in three straight games of the Cup final, and 11-4 in first periods overall in the series.
As they continue their quest for the Stanley Cup, the Oilers must maintain their resilience, capitalize on early opportunities, and rely on their key players to perform at their best. Their journey has been anything but easy, but their ability to overcome adversity has made them a formidable force in the playoffs.
