Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers failed to build a 2-0 series lead in the first round of the 2026 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs after splitting two games at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, against the Anaheim Ducks.
But the three-time Hart Memorial Trophy winner knows better than to panic after Edmonton’s 6-4 loss to the Ducks on Wednesday.
But the three-time Hart Memorial Trophy winner knows better than to panic.
“We’ve been in this situation a lot, 1-1 going on the road, McDavid told reporters after the game, via the Oilers’ official X account. “We’d like a better outcome tonight but we’re comfortable going on the road.”
McDavid is still in pursuit of a Stanley Cup title, 11 seasons into his NHL career, but he can definitely act like he’s been in the playoffs several times before. For one, Edmonton is the two-time defending Western Conference champion. If not for the Florida Panthers, the Oilers could have won two Stanley Cup titles already with McDavid.
Playing in a new environment may also give McDavid the spark he needs. He has zero points through two games in the Ducks series after finishing the 2025-26 NHL regular season leading the league in assists (90) and points (138) while also netting 48 goals.
Game 3 will be on Friday at the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.
