We’re back, y’all! The Edmonton Oilers are finals bound!
With a 6–3 victory in Game 5 of the Western Conference Final, the Edmonton Oilers are off to the Stanley Cup Final for the second consecutive season, eliminating the Dallas Stars. They will be facing the Florida Panthers, a rematch of last year and the third consecutive Cup Final berth for Florida.
The story of the series
Things did not start off great for the Oilers. Despite an early Game 1 lead, an absolute collapse led to a 6–3 loss after three consecutive penalties and goals against turned a 3–1 lead into a 6–3 loss. But, this game contained a crucial turning point featuring Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl on the bench.
When these two have an exchange like this on the bench, you know things are about to turn around. And turn around they did. Edmonton proceeded to win the next four games to take the series four games to one. In the first three of those victories, they allowed just two goals.
Some bad news for the Oilers in this series as they lose two key forwards to injury. Connor Brown missed the final two games, though his prognosis indicates he may be back for the Cup Final. Zach Hyman, however, is not expected back as he underwent surgery following an injury suffered early in game four.
On a positive note, Mattias Ekholm returned to help guide his team to a series clinching victory in game five.
What’s next for the Oilers?
We have a break just shy of a week until the Stanley Cup Final starts on Wednesday, June 4 in Edmonton. Plenty of time to rest, recharge, and practice while soaking up the immaculate vibes in and around the city.
Let’s go Oilers!
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