The Edmonton Oilers find themselves under early pressure after splitting the first two games against the Anaheim Ducks. A shaky Game 2 showing revealed cracks that offense alone could not cover, as control slipped in those moments. With the series now heading to Anaheim, Connor McDavid’s quiet start has only added to the growing attention on a team expected to contend.
Despite that focus, the conversation around Edmonton’s outlook is not centered on offensive talent. Former NHL defenseman and NHL Network analyst Jason Demers believes the real concern lies elsewhere, pointing to factors that could shape the series beyond scoring.
Goaltending Concerns Top Threat to Connor McDavid & Oilers’ Playoff Run
McDavid’s offense is missing from the first two games of the first-round series against the Ducks, and that is at the forefront of most discussions. However, Demers offered a different perspective when evaluating Edmonton’s early situation. Speaking on the Real Kyper & Bourne podcast, he pointed directly to goaltending as the key factor that could impact the Oilers more than any scoring slump.
Demers said, “The only thing that could hurt the Oilers is goaltending,” while noting that recent performances have reopened questions many believed were settled.
Demers also highlighted how unpredictable the Ducks can be, explaining that they are “very opportunistic” and capable of capitalizing on small mistakes.” He added that while many expected a shorter series, Anaheim has enough scoring talent and internal belief to extend the battle.
“Connor Ingram, I think, had one of the worst goals saved above expected, and I thought the issue had kind of been ironed out, but Anaheim is very opportunistic. They have a lot of pure goal scorers on that team, so I don’t count it out at all,” Demers added.
This unpredictability places even more pressure on Edmonton’s defensive structure and goaltending consistency.
Demers’ view came after a Game 2 loss in which Edmonton allowed six goals despite some control at even strength.
The discussion becomes more relevant when looking at the broader playoff picture. Edmonton has built its identity around elite scoring and speed, with McDavid driving much of that attack. However, Demers pointed out that if you “were to tell me after two games Connor McDavid has no points and Evan Bouchard has no points, I would be shocked,” suggesting that offensive struggles are likely temporary rather than a long-term issue.
On the other side, Anaheim has leaned on timely finishing and strong goaltending to stay competitive. Lukas Dostal, in particular, responded after Game 1 with a 33-save effort in Game 2, including key stops late that secured the win.
For the Oilers, this is not a new storyline. Their recent runs to the Stanley Cup Final in back-to-back seasons showed both resilience and moments where goaltending swings influenced outcomes. This season, with a new goaltending tandem of Ingram and Tristan Jarry, the issues are still far from resolved.
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