5. Edmonton Oilers vs. 12. Chicago Blackhawks
Villano: The Edmonton Oilers and Chicago Blackhawks are built similarly. Youth is supplementing the means while the superstars drive play. The superstars on Edmonton are just better, and Patrick Kane is only able to steal one against Connor McDavid and the other MVP candidate. Oilers in 4.
Parise: The Chicago Blackhawks have some all-time great players on their team but they don’t have the depth on defense to keep up with Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and company. Oilers in 5.
DeLuca: This is going to be way more exciting and close than people think. Do not ever count out that Chicago team in the playoffs especially while Patrick Kane is healthy. Blackhawks in 5.
Borges: The Oilers have the best 1-2 combo in the National Hockey League right now in Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. While they don’t have the experience in postseason play as a few of the Blackhawks do, they are just flat out unstoppable. The only reason this becomes a close call for them is because of their lack of depth up front and inconsistent goaltending. Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, and Duncan Keith will out two victories, but 97 and 29 are too much. Oilers in 5.
Studna: Both teams are extremely heavy up front, which will make for an exciting series. I think the Oilers’ defense will be able to keep Patrick Kane and Co. at bay, but I don’t see how the Blackhawks will have any kind of answer for Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Oilers in 4.
Egbert: 2 words: McDavid. Draisaitl. Oilers in 4.
Browne: If you like goals, this is your series. The game’s best player in Connor McDavid and underrated superstar Leon Draisaitl top Patick Kane and Jonathan Toews. Oilers in 5.
Lebovitz: The Oilers will go exactly as far as McDavid and Draisaitl will take them, and they’re basically playing on home ice the entire time. I’ll never count out the Hawks, who have more depth and experience, but they feel like the late 80s “you gotta get through us first” post-dynasty Islanders. Oilers in 5.