The Edmonton Oilers return to Rogers Place tonight with a golden opportunity: secure just one point against the San Jose Sharks, and they’ll officially clinch a berth in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
At 45-28-5 with 95 points, the Oilers are third in the Pacific Division and trending toward a likely first-round matchup with the Los Angeles Kings. The visiting Sharks, meanwhile, have endured a nightmare season, sitting dead last in the Western Conference with just 51 points and a league-worst -96 goal differential.
While the Oilers are clear favorites, the game isn’t without some complications. Leon Draisaitl and Stuart Skinner are both sidelined with injuries along with some other major players, meaning Edmonton will lean heavily on a returning Connor McDavid, who just rejoined the lineup last game after his own brief absence. McDavid’s presence alone gives the Oilers a major advantage, but they’ll need contributions throughout the lineup to avoid a letdown.
One of the silver linings during these injury setbacks has been the strong play of depth forwards. Connor Brown, who struggled to find his game earlier this season, has looked noticeably more confident in recent weeks, providing a spark with his work ethic and smart two-way play. Vasily Podkolzin has also stepped up, earning praise for his energy and physicality while chipping in offensively.
With four games remaining, Edmonton’s playoff position is nearly locked in—but there’s still a slim chance they could catch the Kings for second in the division and earn home-ice advantage. To do so, the Oilers would need to win out while hoping the Kings stumble down the stretch. It’s a tall task, but not an impossible one.
More important, however, is entering the playoffs on a high note. Tonight’s matchup presents an ideal chance for the Oilers to fine-tune their game, especially on special teams, and build chemistry in the absence of some key players. Whether it’s Olivier Rodrigue or Calvin Pickard getting the start, the team will need steady goaltending and a complete team effort to avoid a trap game against a Sharks team with nothing to lose.
A single point is all the Oilers need to punch their playoff ticket—but expect them to push for two. With McDavid back and the supporting cast stepping up, Edmonton should have every reason to leave tonight with a celebration.