EDMONTON – "We’ve got our hands full."
Matthew Tkachuk certainly knows what he and the Florida Panthers are up against in the upcoming Stanley Cup Final series with the Edmonton Oilers. And when you’re talking about challenges, there’s no overlooking the presence of Connor McDavid.
Chatting on The Pat McAfee Show, Tkachuk didn’t hold back his thoughts. "I’m pretty familiar with them from my time in Calgary,” he shared. “I’ve watched those players evolve and faced McDavid more times than I can count."
It’s no secret that when you face off with arguably the best player in the world, the stakes are always high. McDavid isn’t just a player; he’s a phenomenon who raises the bar every single night.
Being drafted right after McDavid hasn’t deterred Tkachuk; instead, it has given him a front-row seat to witness the highs and lows of an ever-evolving Edmonton squad. This season, something about the Oilers has caught his attention—and it’s not just their fiery offense.
“They are a deep team,” Tkachuk pointed out, adding, “They excel at both ends of the ice, and their goalie’s been phenomenal. But what often gets overlooked is their defense.”
Indeed, the Oilers have been shutting down lanes and making life tough for opponents, showing that their defensive prowess isn’t something to ignore. Blocking shots and clogging the path to the net—these are essentials for postseason success, and Edmonton's been doing it well.
The timing couldn't be better for their resurgence. Key players like Mattias Ekholm, Evander Kane, Trent Frederic, John Klingberg, and Jake Walman have all made comebacks from late-season injuries, strengthening the lineup.
A rocky start to the playoffs, with two quick losses to the LA Kings, seemed more about adjusting and getting back in sync rather than any deep-seated issue. Since regaining their stride, the Oilers have been nothing short of a juggernaut, boasting a remarkable 12-2 record.
Tkachuk acknowledges the turnaround. “Starting the playoffs down two games to LA and then going 12-2 is remarkable. That’s the kind of run that’s rare, even in the regular season, let alone the playoffs.”
As the Oilers hit their top form, the Stanley Cup Finals promise to be a fierce contest. With both teams hitting their stride, Wednesday can’t come soon enough. Buckle up for a showdown that’s set to sizzle.
