Oilers players only meeting identified as turning point this playoffs

Back in the first round during Game 4, NHL insiders reported the Oilers held a players only meeting with only Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Mattias Janmark absent. That may have been the moment the depth began to lock in.

The Oilers found themselves trailing in the game again at that point, a trend that occurred early in games in the first round. Some Oilers called a players only meeting, with only the superstars and Janmark absent.

Assuming Janmark was unavailable for some reason, it was a significant moment for the supporting group of players to call a meeting to hold themselves accountable.

Hockey is the ultimate team sport, but McDavid and Draisaitl have close to special status on the Oilers and in the NHL. They're always giving it their all, which can visibly inspire their teammates to elevate their games as well in the biggest moments.

Since the Oilers wrapped up their first round victory over Los Angeles, the depth of the team has become maybe the biggest reason for their success.

The Oilers are able to run 4 balanced lines, all capable of tough defensive matchups, and all even chipping in offence. The most exemplary moment of their depth was the Oilers completely balanced line usage in Game 5 overtime vs Vegas.

So many players have stepped up and elevated their game, it's hard to recognize them all. Adam Henrique had a two goal game, Vasily Podkolzin has 6 playoff points, Mattias Janmark scored 2 goals, Kapanen had a series winner. The Oilers are getting contributions everywhere.

It very well may have been one conversation in the locker room near the beginning of their playoff journey which unlocked a new level for the Oilers depth. The team looks more complete than ever now, and they're about to get Mattias Ekholm back too.