NHL Playoffs 2026: Connor McDavid declares the Edmonton Oilers are all set for their opening-round clash against Anaheim Ducks

The Edmonton Oilers are entering the 2026 NHL playoffs, and it seems they are confident enough for their opening round clash against the Ducks, as captain Connor McDavid already declared that the team is ready for their playoff test. As per the NHL schedule, the Oilers are going to lock horns with the Anaheim Ducks on Monday at 10:00 PM ET.

It is to be noted that the Ducks are in the playoffs for the first time since 2018, claiming one of two Wild Card spots in the West, despite leading the Pacific Division for most of the regular season. On the other hand, the Oilers took two of three games from Anaheim this season, winning both games at home, with both victories coming by two or more goals. Let’s take a look at what Connor McDavid has to say about Game 1.

Connor McDavid is all set and ready for Game 1 of the NHL Playoffs against the Anaheim Ducks

With a roster featuring playoff-tested talent and an improved defensive team, the Edmonton Oilers will enter the series as a strong contender, carrying significant momentum into the playoffs. In this context, captain Connor McDavid has declared the team ready ahead of their opening-round clash against the Anaheim Ducks. Speaking before Game 1, McDavid emphasized that the Oilers have built the experience and mindset needed for postseason hockey.

“To be honest, I felt good about each and every group we go in [playoffs] with. Honestly, this group is no different. Really feels like it’s anybody’s year,” McDavid said.


McDavid further added, “But with that being said, we got a big challenge in front of us. We got a really good young, skilled, exciting Ducks team coming in that we got to play hard, we got to be ready for, and we will be.” Adding to this, he further said that the team is now focused on elevating its performance when it matters most.

Discussing the playoffs, the captain further said he sees it as a great opportunity to get off to a good start, “Playoffs are really a different game. It really is. You have to understand all of that. This group understands that. We’ve been through plenty of runs and played in plenty of big games, and tomorrow’s no different. It’s a big game, game one at home. Great opportunity to get off to a good start.”

McDavid also acknowledged that while the regular season can feel repetitive, it actually prepares teams for the playoffs, ultimately. He admitted that the group has learned from past experiences and is better equipped for the high stakes of the postseason. Game 1 between the Anaheim Ducks vs. the Edmonton Oilers starts Monday, April 20, at 10:00 p.m ET at Rogers Place.

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