The series between the Edmonton Oilers and the Los Angeles Kings has wrapped up, with the Oilers taking the series in six games. With that, it is time to take a look back at the series, and review some of the storylines that developed, and how they could impact the series against the Vegas Golden Knights.
Wrapping Up The Series
Despite the Kings playing very defensive hockey, the offence of the Oilers was simply too much for them to handle.
The young upstart Kings team have a lot to be proud of when it comes to this series against the Kings. This was the biggest challenge for the Oilers, and most likely they will change their play style for the remainder of the playoffs because of it.
Shutting Down McDavid
Despite McDavid being one of the top Oilers In terms of playoff points, the Kings held him to only a few points.
This caused Edmonton to make a major adjustment, with players like Leon Draisaitl, Evan Bouchard, and Klim Kostin stepping up in important moments.
What’s Next
For the Kings, this is a great first step with the new core.
This year was great for getting young guys like Quinton Byfield playoff ice time, while solidifying Joonas Koorpisalo as the goaltender of the future.
This year was the first standout year where the Kings were a bonafide playoff team instead of a surprise, and it should be a very similar result.
Prediction
Overall, the prediction made in the preview article was correct, and the series did end in six.
Despite the Kings beating the Oilers in the regular season series, it was felt that the offensive weapons Edmonton had would be too much for the Kings roster to handle, and that was correct.
Although the first few games didn’t go in the Oilers favour, the last two was all Edmonton.
Next up, the Oilers will take on the Vegas Golden Knights in round two.
Main Photo: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
