On Sunday, following the conclusion of the Dallas Stars and Vegas Golden Knights series, the NHL officially confirmed the schedule for the second round of the Western Conference playoffs. This of course included the dates and (some) start times for the Edmonton Oilers' series with the Vancouver Canucks.
Of some interest to fans, the schedule for the Oilers versus Canucks is slightly different than expected, at least based on prior assumptions. Previously, speculation had their second round series beginning on Tuesday.
Now though, as per NHL.com, game one will instead take place on Wednesday night, with puck drop set for 8 p.m. MT in Vancouver, at Rogers Arena. At 24 hours later than previously reported, it doesn't make that much difference, although it at least gives the Oilers more time to prepare with them now not flying out to Vancouver until Tuesday.
More rest time for key players
This could prove crucial in respect of forwards Evander Kane and Adam Henrique who both, as per Oilers TV reporter and host Tony Brar, missed consecutive practice days during the weekend. While coach Kris Knoblauch says they will be ready to go for game one, any extra recuperation time can only help.
Regardless, game two in Vancouver will now take place on Friday night, again beginning at 8 p.m. MT. The series will then move to Edmonton for games three and four on Sunday and next Tuesday respectively, although puck drop time has yet to be confirmed.
Assuming the series does not result in a sweep by either team, game five will take place in Vancouver on Thursday May. 16 and game six will be at Rogers Place on Saturday May 18. If a deciding game seven is required, this will take place back in Vancouver on Monday May 20.
Despite being swept 4-0-0 by the Canucks in the regular season series by a combined 21-7, the Oilers enter the second round matchup as betting favourites. However, as much as Edmonton does have the better overall talent on their roster, nothing can be taken for granted against a Vancover team which has been underestimated all season but just continues to win when it matters.