Oilers prove they're a different team this playoffs against Kings

Now in the ninth year of Connor McDavid's tenure with the Edmonton Oilers, this team just feels different all around. Most notably though, so far they've proven to be more built for the NHL playoffs with their team toughness.

The Oilers obviously have a more skilled lineup than the Kings, and so they can try to muck up the ice and slow the game down with physical play, and it will advantage Los Angeles. That may have worked in previous years, but now the Oilers are a team tough as nails up and down the lineup. Many fans have pinpointed this moment from Vinny Desharnais that shows the Oilers are now actually the team to be feared physically.


When the series shifted back to Los Angeles, the Kings seemed to try to use the home ice advantage to up their physical play. However, led by Evander Kane and many other physical vets, the Oilers had all the ability to answer the bell. After Andreas Englund hit Evander Kane last game, every Oiler on the ice took a man, showing their full dedication to each other and willingness get into the fight.



The Oilers are now a team that has elements of toughness up and down their lineup, and it will be an incredible help to them in a long playoff run. They're noticeably better, and still Corey Perry hasn't even had his signature moment yet.

The Kings are trying everything they can to try to find a spark to keep themselves in the series - despite the fact it's only 2-1 for the Oilers, they've been totally dominant. Tonight, the LA Kings are trying a gutsy move with their lineup, going with ‘Big Save' Dave Rittich instead of their veteran starter Cam Talbot.