Connor McDavid remains confident the Edmonton Oilers can respond on the road after a tough Game 2 loss to the Anaheim Ducks. Edmonton fell 6-4 on April 22, leveling the first-round series at 1-1.
McDavid addressed the challenge of heading into Game 3 away from home.
“We’ve been in this situation a lot, you know, 1-1 going going on the road,” McDavid said. “We’re comfortable on the road. We like playing on the road. Obviously, we’d like a better outcome tonight and a better product tonight, but we’re comfortable going on the road.”
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The Oilers captain also pointed to special teams as a key issue. Edmonton failed to convert on the power play and allowed a costly short-handed goal.
“Yeah, special teams was no good,” McDavid admitted postgame.
Special teams prove costly again for Oilers
Edmonton created chances but lacked finish when it mattered. McDavid noted the team still generated looks but could not convert. He stressed the need to improve execution and avoid mistakes that swing momentum.
A turnover by McDavid led to a short-handed goal from Ryan Poehling, which proved costly. The Ducks capitalized throughout the night, scoring twice on the power play and once while short-handed.
Cutter Gauthier led Anaheim with two goals, including the game-winner late in the third. Leon Draisaitl provided offense for Edmonton with a goal and an assist.
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McDavid also credited Anaheim’s defensive effort. He said the Ducks disrupted passing lanes and forced rushed plays.
“They’re obviously checking hard, and they got good sticks,” McDavid said. “They’re good players. and we haven’t been as crisp as we’d like, obviously.”
Oilers need Adjustments against the structured Ducks
The Oilers entered the series aiming for tighter, low-event hockey. However, Anaheim has controlled the pace by sitting back and limiting space. McDavid acknowledged that the shift in style has created challenges.
“Obviously, they’ve kind of switched their style a little bit,” McDavid said. “Kind of sitting back a little bit. Sitting in there and making it tough. We got to be we got to be stubborn with it and keep putting it in and check them and and make them come the full way.”
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Despite the loss, McDavid played over 24 minutes after a brief injury scare. He returned quickly and showed no major issues, offering reassurance for the games ahead.
Game 3 now moves to Anaheim on April 24. With the series tied, McDavid believes the Oilers are ready for the test. The focus remains on sharper execution and cleaner special teams as they look to regain control.
