The first-round series versus the Los Angeles Kings hasn’t gotten off to the start that Edmonton Oilers fans had hoped. The Oilers were flat-out horrendous through the opening two periods versus the Kings on Monday night, at one point trailing 4-0 in a game where they were being completely outclassed by a much-improved Kings roster.
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To the Oilers’ credit, however, they were able to battle back in the third period, and at one point tied the game up at five apiece before eventually falling by a 6-5 final. The loss makes Game 2 on Wednesday of utmost importance, and though many questioned their ability to win this series, there are actually plenty of positives Oilers fans can take from Game 1 despite the final result being a loss.
Third Period Dominance
The Kings are a difficult team to go up against in any circumstance, but become particularly tough to play against when they have the lead. They continue to use the 1-3-1 system under head coach Jim Hiller, which makes it tough for opposing teams to mount a comeback against them.
The Oilers appeared frustrated with the trap-style hockey in the second period, but were able to regroup during the intermission and came out flying in the third. The offensive burst in the third period should give them plenty of confidence in that area of their game heading into Game 2. Perhaps even more importantly, it may have rattled goaltender Darcy Kuemper, who wound up allowing five goals on just 25 shots.
McDavid Played at an Elite Level
Much was made about the 2024-25 season for Connor McDavid. While he was able to hit the 100-point marker once again, he wasn’t the same dominant player everybody has become so accustomed to. He, too, was quiet for the first portion of last night’s game, but came alive late in the second period and went on to completely control the third period.
The Oilers captain finished the game with a goal and three helpers, and looked every bit as good (if not better) than he did in last year’s playoff run, which saw him win the Conn Smythe Trophy. Fans can be assured that he is back to full health and should expect to see him at his best once again, not only for Game 2, but for the remainder of the series.
Penalty Kill Showed Life
A big issue throughout the season for the Oilers was their penalty kill. They wound up finishing the season with a success rate of just 78.2 per cent, which, while not horrible, was well outside the NHL’s top 10. Though it didn’t start off great last night, a huge kill in the third period should help give their penalty killing group some confidence heading into Game 2.
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The Oilers wound up being two men short in the third period after an unsuccessful challenge on a Jake Walman delay of game penalty. As a result, they were down five on three for an entire two-minute window, which felt like a guaranteed goal against. Instead, thanks in large part to some big saves from Stuart Skinner, the Oilers were able to get out unscathed and wound up tying the game a short time later.
Depth Scoring Came Through
The constant criticism for this Oilers team, not only in this season but several years past, is that they rely to heavily on McDavid and Leon Draisaitl to carry the load offensively. Yes, the duo finished with five points on the night, but the supporting cast around them played a big part in tying the game for a brief period.
The seemingly-ageless Corey Perry was able to build off of a very impressive regular season with a goal and an assist, while Mattias Janmark also scored and ended a very lengthy goal drought. Meanwhile, Jeff Skinner was able to chip in with a helper, as was Trent Frederic, who was playing just his second game since being acquired at the 2025 Trade Deadline.
Game 2 Win is Crucial
As is the case with any team beginning a series on the road, it’s crucial to get a split in the games. Should the Oilers win Game 2, they would then have home-ice advantage, which would drastically improve their chances of winning the series. As great as the Kings were on home ice this season, they struggled on the road, going 17-19-5. That makes Wednesday’s game of the utmost importance to the Oilers, and, based on their third-period effort, should have fans feeling rather confident.
