The Edmonton Oilers are at an important point in the season, trying to secure a playoff spot in the Pacific Division. Their recent performance has been inconsistent, much like the overall sample this season, putting pressure on the team. While their top players are performing well, the team still struggles with depth scoring and defense.
Guidance from hockey legend Wayne Gretzky offers insight into how the Oilers should approach the final weeks before the playoffs.
How the Edmonton Oilers Should Approach the 2025-26 Playoff Push, According to Wayne Gretzky
Gretzky, who played 20 seasons in the NHL and won four Stanley Cups, spoke about what the Oilers need to focus on as the playoffs approach. Talking with Paige Martin and Bob Stauffer before Edmonton’s game against the Vegas Golden Knights, he stressed that the team should not worry about finishing in a specific spot in the division.
“I wouldn’t panic too much,” Gretzky said. “Finishing one, two, or three doesn’t matter. I look for the Oilers to have a nice run.”
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But Gretzky explained that avoiding a first-round matchup with the Colorado Avalanche could be important for Edmonton’s postseason chances.
“The only thing you don’t wanna do, you don’t wanna finish in that one spot where you have to play Colorado in the first round,” Gretzky said, pointing to the Avalanche, who could be favorites to win a playoff series early. “If you can avoid them till the third round, get some momentum. But I think the Oilers are in good shape right now, and they’ll be fine.”
The Oilers have struggled to win and are certainly missing the momentum the Avalanche have built. Thus, Gretzky’s advice focuses on positioning the team for the best possible playoff path while maintaining confidence.
Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl Continue to Carry the Offense
The Oilers rely heavily on Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, who have combined for nearly 200 points this season. Their recent 4-2 win over the Golden Knights highlighted both the team’s strong scoring and defensive concerns.
Their troubles are not limited to defense; goaltending has also been their primary weakness. Connor Ingram (8-6-1) stopped 24 shots against Vegas and has been looking good lately. However, their once-promising starter, Tristan Jarry, whom they acquired from Pittsburgh in a trade for former starter Stuart Skinner, has struggled.
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Edmonton’s game against Colorado tonight will put Gretzky’s advice to the test. McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon, fresh from competing in the Milano Cortina 2026 gold-medal game, lead the NHL in scoring and will battle on the ice. They will receive support from defensemen Evan Bouchard and Cale Makar, who continue to be impactful.
Gretzky’s advice makes sense because the Oilers should prioritize momentum over divisional position. If players beyond McDavid and Draisaitl contribute effectively, Edmonton could improve its playoff chances. Avoiding an early matchup with Colorado might give them a clearer path to advance further.
