The surprisingly hectic first round playoff series between the Los Angeles Kings and the Edmonton Oilers, has been better than expected. There are already some storylines emerging after four games.
Defence Wins Championships
Before the series started, many analysts predicted that the Kings would try and shut down McDavid. In addition, that is exactly what they have done so far.
Although McDavid has 6 points in 4 games, the Oilers’ offense has notably struggled in this series. Their leading points scorer being Leon Draisaitl with 9.
The Oilers have also gotten above three goals twice this series. In addition, both of those being wins. This proves that if the Oilers can break through the Kings defense, they can pull off a victory.
Comeback Galore
The majority of the games in this series so far have been nail biters, with games one, three, and four all being comebacks. Although, game three ended with the leading team scoring in overtime, thanks to Trevor Moore.
Games thone and four were also close calls, with Alex Iafallo and Matt Roy being the heroes for the Kings.
Bouchard, Draisaitl Come up Clutch
Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard and forward Leon Draisaitl have been one of the key players in the Oilers’ staying in this series.
With the Kings defense locking down McDavid, they’ve needed guys like Draisaitl and Bouchard to step up.
So far, Bouchard has 2 goals and 5 assista for 7 points in 4 games, being one of the team leaders in points this series.
Draisaitl has 5 goals and 4 assists for 9 points in 4 games so far, and is currently leading the Oilers in points.
If Bouchard and Draisaitl continue to lead the Oilers in offense while McDavid gets somewhat shut down by the Kings’ defense, the Oilers have the ability to stretch this series to seven like they did last year.
Main Photo: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
