3 Oilers who are critical to the team success in round 2 of the Stanley Cup playoffs

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JANUARY 14: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins #93 of the Edmonton Oilers takes a shot as William Karlsson #71 of the Vegas Golden Knights defends in the first period of their game at T-Mobile Arena on January 14, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Oilers defeated the Golden Knights 4-3. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JANUARY 14: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins #93 of the Edmonton Oilers takes a shot as William Karlsson #71 of the Vegas Golden Knights defends in the first period of their game at T-Mobile Arena on January 14, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Oilers defeated the Golden Knights 4-3. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /
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May 14, 2022; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; The Edmonton Oilers celebrate a goal by defensemen Cody Ceci (5) against the Los Angeles Kings during the second period in game seven of the first round of the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports
May 14, 2022; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; The Edmonton Oilers celebrate a goal by defensemen Cody Ceci (5) against the Los Angeles Kings during the second period in game seven of the first round of the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports /

D Cody Ceci

Cody Ceci will need to step up and contribute for the Oilers in the playoffs. While he may not have the offensive skills and production of Darnell Nurse, he needs to bring other important qualities to the team, such as his physicality and defensive abilities.  Ceci only contributed a single assist in the first round, and there were times when his defensive play was not up to par. He had a few defensive miscues and turnovers, so he will need to focus on tightening up his play and making smart decisions with the puck. As a defenseman, his primary responsibility is to defend his own end and prevent the opposition from scoring.

If Ceci wants to help the Oilers in the playoffs, he will need to focus on improving his defensive play and reducing the number of mistakes he makes in his own end. This includes making smart decisions with the puck, positioning himself well, and using his physicality to win battles along the boards and in front of the net.

It’s important to remember that mistakes happen in hockey, and no player is perfect. However, it’s important for players like Ceci to learn from their mistakes and continue to work on improving their game. If he can do that, he can be a valuable contributor to the Oilers in the playoffs.