Oilers Face Ducks in 2026 Playoff Opener After Kings Rivalry Ends
The Edmonton Oilers kick off their 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs journey with a first-round series against the Anaheim Ducks on Monday. This matchup marks a departure from their recent history, having faced the Los Angeles Kings in the opening round for the past four seasons. The Oilers aim for their third consecutive appearance in the Stanley Cup Final, while the Ducks look to end an eight-year playoff drought. Despite both teams winning their regular-season finales, they struggled towards the end of the season. Edmonton recorded a 2-2-2 finish over their last six games, while Anaheim went 2-6-2 in their final ten. Connor McDavid, the Oilers' captain, shone brightly, finishing the season with 138 points and capturing the Art Ross Trophy for the sixth time in his career. In contrast, the Ducks haven't won a playoff series since defeating the Oilers in the 2017 second round and are looking to break their postseason losing streak. In their previous playoff encounters, the Oilers and Ducks are tied 1-1, with Edmonton winning their first matchup in the 2006 Western Conference Final. In the 2025-26 regular season, Edmonton went 2-1-0 against Anaheim, with home teams winning each game. The Oilers are heavily favored to advance, with betting odds ranging from -220 to -245 across major sportsbooks, while the Ducks sit between +180 and +198. Edmonton features strong offensive players like Zach Hyman and potentially Leon Draisaitl, who is recovering from injury. On the other hand, the Ducks' offense is led by Cutter Gauthier, Leo Carlsson, and rookie Beckett Sennecke, but they lack playoff experience. With the Oilers' potent power play and the Ducks' inexperienced roster, the odds favor Edmonton in this playoff showdown.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-04-19