Connor McDavid impressed by Oilers’ defensive depth amid playoff push

The Edmonton Oilers are gaining momentum at the right time, riding a five-game win streak. Despite missing Leon Draisaitl, the team has found balance, with contributions coming across the lineup during a crucial push for the NHL playoffs.

The run started with a 5-2 win over the Utah Mammoth and continued with victories against the Vegas Golden Knights, Anaheim Ducks, Seattle Kraken, and Chicago Blackhawks. The latest 3-1 win over Chicago highlighted Edmonton’s ability to control games while maintaining consistency on both ends.

Connor McDavid credited the team’s depth for the recent surge. Speaking after the win, he pointed to strong defensive play and reliable goaltending as key factors. He praised pairings like Darnell Nurse and Connor Murphy, while also highlighting contributions from across the forward lines.

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“It’s been team efforts, obviously,” McDavid said. “I think our D have played really, really well. Nursey and Murf have been as solid a pairing as we’ve had, and Bush [Evan Bouchard] and Ek [Mattias Ekholm] are doing their thing, and Wally [Jake Walman] and Embo [Ty Emberson] are giving us good, solid minutes.

“The goalies are doing their thing, and we’re getting scoring from kind of everyone, and it’s been good.”

Defensively, the Oilers have shown improvement, allowing fewer goals and limiting high-danger chances.

Meanwhile, McDavid continues to lead the NHL with 126 points, but the Oilers are no longer relying solely on their captain. Players like Adam Henrique and Vasily Podkolzin have stepped up, while goaltenders Connor Ingram and Tristan Jarry have delivered steady performances.

“It’s obviously been good,” McDavid said. “Not just because we’re winning games, but you can tell the emotional engagement is there. Guys are just a little bit more engaged in the game.”

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The team has now won seven of its last nine games, showing resilience even without one of its top stars. This stretch has underlined Edmonton’s ability to adapt and compete in tight situations.

Connor McDavid talks about the Oilers’ plan for winning the division

McDavid downplayed the importance of finishing first in the Division, keeping the focus on securing a playoff spot. With the win against the Blackhawks, the Oilers are tied with the Anaheim Ducks for first place in the Pacific Division.

“I think obviously just putting the X beside our name is the most important thing,” McDavid said. “Just getting in. That’s our main focus.

“Where we are seated, not too concerned about it. We can start a series on the road. We can start a series at home. Pretty comfortable either way. But just got to get in.”

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Edmonton holds a strong 39-28-9 record and remains among the league’s top offensive teams. With improved depth and confidence, the Oilers are once again positioning themselves as a serious contender heading into the postseason.

While questions remain about consistency, the recent performances suggest progress at a key stage of the season.