Analyst highlights key stat that suggests Oilers are top Cup Contender in NHL

The Oilers' defense is an offensive juggernaut, and a big part of why the team is considered a perennial Stanley Cup Contender, having been to the finals the two post-seasons.

When Connor McDavid was drafted in 2016, the Oilers missed the playoffs 3 of the next 4 campaigns, and 12 of 13 before that. Since that time, however, Edmonton has been one of the best teams, with their d-core contributing to the team's identity of being offensively-minded.

Yet, analysts are quick to point out what Edmonton does wrong, focusing on the negative, instead of the things they do well, like score goals, and overwhelm teams with their speed and skill from both ends of the ice.

It's no surprise that the Oilers' d-core contributes significantly to the team's offense. During the past 3 seasons, 56 NHL defenseman have recorded 40+ points at least once. Edmonton has four, the only club with such depth: Evan Bouchard, Mattias Ekholm, Jake Walman, and Darnel Nurse, all of whom are still with the club.

In fact, despite some additions, and players leaving, the Oilers are essentially the same team, especially on the blueline. Bouchard ranked 6th last year among defenseman 5v5; Walman 22nd; Nurse 23rd; and Ekholm 41st. Having an active blueline with four D in the top-41 overall indicates the team's ability to produce.

Having so many blueliners that can move the puck easily out of their zone, and pass it in stride to high-scoring forwards like McDavid, Draisaitl, and other skilled players, is a major advantage. Edmonton ranked 1st in the NHL in shots on goal last year, precisely because the forwards get the puck from the D as often as they do.

However, Edmonton Oilers also defend well; they were 1st in the league with the fewest high-danger shots allowed 5v5, a fact that contradicts some reports that suggest Bouchard and Nurse are defensive liabilities. They turnover the puck occasionally, yes; but it doesn't take away from their top defensive ranking.

Media loves to focus on the negative, that is just a fact of life in major sports. Yet, the Oilers have been to the last two Stanley Cup Finals. The defense is a big reason why, and will continue to be. It is the team's identity, after all.