3 Keys to the Oilers Beating the Golden Knights in Round 2

Sunday, May 04, 2025 ,

Edmonton Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard (skates against the Vegas Golden Knights

For the Edmonton Oilers to overcome the Vegas Golden Knights in their second-round matchup, they must focus on three key areas of improvement.

Analysts Ray Ferraro and Chris Gawlik have questioned whether the Oilers can replicate their first-round success against the Los Angeles Kings. Head coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledges that Vegas presents a different challenge, requiring adjustments from Edmonton’s previous series.



While the Oilers showed resilience in Round 1, their inconsistent play exposed vulnerabilities that a structured and battle-tested Golden Knights squad could capitalize on. 

Here’s what Edmonton must fix to advance:


1. Vegas’ Defense Outmatches Edmonton’s

The Oilers managed to stifle the Kings’ attack despite missing Mattias Ekholm at times, but their defensive lapses were glaring. After tightening up in Game 5, they regressed in Game 6, allowing dangerous chances and odd-man rushes—a costly approach against Vegas.

Darnell Nurse and Evan Bouchard had moments of solid play but struggled defensively at times. Bouchard’s offensive upside is undeniable, but his defensive game must improve. The same goes for Brett Kulak, Jake Walman, John Klingberg, and Ty Emberson. 

Edmonton’s blue line isn’t as deep or physical as Vegas’, so they’ll need to elevate their play to compete.


2. Goaltending Remains a Question Mark

Calvin Pickard appears to have taken the starting role from Stuart Skinner and performed well in relief. However, he allowed a few soft goals, and most analysts would favor Vegas’ Adin Hill in a head-to-head comparison.

If Pickard stumbles, Knoblauch may turn back to Skinner, who must rebound from his shaky outing against Los Angeles. While some goals weren’t entirely his fault, he wasn’t sharp enough. 

The Oilers can’t afford inconsistent netminding against a team like Vegas.


3. Limiting Turnovers and Odd-Man Rushes

Edmonton’s risky puck management at the offensive blue line led to frequent odd-man rushes against the Kings—a recipe for disaster against Vegas’ speedy transition game.

As Adam Henrique noted, “They’re a great rush team with a lot of offensive skill. You have to be tight; you can’t give them an inch.” If the Oilers repeat their Game 6 defensive breakdowns, they’ll be in trouble.



Bottom Line

If Edmonton can shore up their defense, get reliable goaltending, and cut down on turnovers, they have a legitimate chance against Vegas. If not, the Golden Knights will likely send them home once again. 



Image - Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn

Go To: NFL Rumors | NBA Rumors | MLB Rumors