Edmonton Oilers Poised for Playoff Push in 2024-25 Season

In recent NHL seasons, it has not been uncommon for teams that fall short in the Stanley Cup Final to struggle the following year. However, the Edmonton Oilers are defying that trend in the 2024-25 season, as indicated by their strong performance in the first 63 games. With a record of 78 points, the Oilers are currently holding second place in the Pacific Division, only trailing the Vegas Golden Knights, who lead with 82 points and 35 regulation wins.

Upcoming Matches and Playoff Race

The Oilers continue their pursuit of playoff success tonight as they face off against the Buffalo Sabres at 7 PM ET, broadcasting on ESPN+, Hulu, and Disney+. Following this crucial match in Western New York, the team will embark on a series of games against three metropolitan teams: the New Jersey Devils on Thursday, the New York Islanders on Friday, and the New York Rangers on Sunday.

As the regular season draws to a close, the Oilers will have 19 games remaining on their schedule, with only seven of those against teams that are currently holding playoff spots. Notably, a significant matchup is set for April 1st, where they will face the Golden Knights in what is being termed a “4-point game,” crucial for determining playoff standings.

Historical Context: Seeds and Playoff Performance

While playoff seeding remains important, the Oilers’ recent history suggests that it’s not the only factor for postseason success. Previously, in 2006, they won the Cup Final as the eighth seed in the West, highlighting the unpredictability of playoff outcomes. Therefore, whether they secure a top seed or not, the potential for success remains high for this squad.

Detailed Standings and Contenders

Current Playoff Matchups

Eastern Conference

• A1 Florida Panthers vs WC1 Columbus Blue Jackets
• A2 Toronto Maple Leafs vs A3 Tampa Bay Lightning
• M1 Washington Capitals vs WC2 Ottawa Senators
• M2 Carolina Hurricanes vs M3 New Jersey Devils

Western Conference

• C1 Winnipeg Jets vs WC2 Calgary Flames
• C2 Dallas Stars vs C3 Colorado Avalanche
• P1 Vegas Golden Knights vs WC1 Minnesota Wild
• P2 Edmonton Oilers vs P3 Los Angeles Kings

Team Performance Summary

As of the latest games, several teams remain strong contenders in their respective divisions:

Atlantic Division

• Florida Panthers: 83 points, 34 regulation wins, 99.9% playoff chances
• Toronto Maple Leafs: 79 points, 31 regulation wins, 99.9% playoff chances
• Tampa Bay Lightning: 78 points, 32 regulation wins, 99.9% playoff chances

Metro Division

• Washington Capitals: 92 points, 35 regulation wins, 99.9% playoff chances
• Carolina Hurricanes: 80 points, 33 regulation wins, 99.9% playoff chances
• New Jersey Devils: 74 points, 30 regulation wins, 85.4% playoff chances

Central Division

• Winnipeg Jets: 92 points, 36 regulation wins, 99.9% playoff chances
• Dallas Stars: 86 points, 35 regulation wins, 99.9% playoff chances

Pacific Division

• Vegas Golden Knights: 82 points, 35 regulation wins, 99.9% playoff chances
• Edmonton Oilers: 78 points, 27 regulation wins, 99.7% playoff chances
• Los Angeles Kings: 75 points, 29 regulation wins, 92% playoff chances

Draft Lottery Implications

The NHL utilizes a draft lottery system that affects the order of first-round picks, meaning that teams finishing last are not guaranteed a No. 1 selection. As of now, the leading candidate for this year’s draft class is Matthew Schaefer, a defender from OHL’s Erie Otters, who has garnered significant attention.

Conclusion

As the Oilers gear up for their playoff pursuit, the coming weeks will be instrumental in shaping their postseason fate. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching how the team’s performance unfolds leading up to April 17th, the final day of the regular season.