With Connor McDavid leading the way, the Edmonton Oilers are again in the conversation as serious Stanley Cup contenders. They are headed into the Western Conference finals. But can they actually get over the hump and win it all this year? That’s the question many Oilers fans are wrestling with, and opinions are split — even among those who believe McDavid is already one of the all-time greats.
The Case For the Oilers Winning the Stanley Cup
You can’t talk about the Oilers without starting with McDavid. Many have described him as Lemieux-like, putting him in the same sentence as Gretzky, Crosby, and Mario — generational talents who eventually got their Cups. The thinking goes: players this good don’t go ringless forever. McDavid’s performances have been electric, and alongside Draisaitl, the Oilers boast the most dangerous offensive duo in the game.
And it’s not just McDavid. Edmonton has played fantastic hockey lately — seven shutouts, consistent scoring, and a power play that strikes fear into opponents. As the playoffs continue, this team has shown it can beat top-tier opponents.
Also, there’s the hunger. Edmonton has come close, and with their core in its prime, there’s a real sense of urgency. If they can stay healthy and get just decent goaltending, they’ve got a shot.
The Case Against the Oilers Winning the Stanley Cup
The main concern? Goaltending. Many still can’t quite believe Edmonton can win a Stanley Cup with Stuart Skinner or Calvin Pickard in the net. Even with the shutouts, there’s a lingering doubt about whether those goalies can hold up over two more rounds against elite teams.
Depth is another concern. Teams like Dallas and Florida can roll four lines and play structured, disciplined hockey that wears down top-heavy clubs. As one analyst said, Dallas may not be as flashy, but they’re built to win seven-game series. That balance could be the Oilers’ undoing.
The Bottom Line for the Oilers
Can the Oilers win the Stanley Cup? Yes. But will they? That likely depends on whether McDavid’s brilliance can cover up the team’s weaker areas — and whether Edmonton can finally get the kind of goaltending that wins championships. The window is open, but the path is steep.
