Connor McDavid calls Oilers 'average team' after season-ending loss to Ducks

TL;DR

Connor McDavid described the Edmonton Oilers as an 'average team' following their first-round playoff exit against the Anaheim Ducks. The Oilers, who previously reached the Stanley Cup Final, faced disappointment after failing to meet high expectations this season.

Key points

Connor McDavid calls Oilers an average team
Oilers eliminated in first round by Ducks
Ducks ended a seven-year playoff drought
Oilers had back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances
High expectations led to disappointment

Mentioned in this story

Connor McDavid

Edmonton OilersAnaheim Ducks

Connor McDavid calls Oilers 'average team' after season-ending loss to Ducks

The Edmonton Oilers took a step back this season.

After back-to-back trips to the Stanley Cup Final, including a Game 7 loss in 2024, the Oilers are out in the first round, falling to an Anaheim Ducks team that just ended a seven-year playoff drought.

"We were an average team all year," Oilers captain Connor McDavid told reporters after the Game 6 loss in Anaheim. "When you're an average team with high expectations, you're going to be disappointed. We just never found it."

McDavid, who signed a team-friendly, two-year extension to allow the team to build a stronger contender, still drives the team. So does Leon Draisaitl, but both of them were dealing with injuries. Even though the goaltending was changed to Connor Ingram and Tristan Jarry, it didn't get them as far. The penalty kill was the worst in the league in the playoffs.

"We expected to have a longer run than we did. It is what it is," McDavid said.

The NHL is announcing the finalists for the Hart Trophy and the other major awards. Here's who is in the running (listed alphabetically):

Ted Lindsay Award (most outstanding player) finalist: San Jose Sharks center Macklin Celebrini

Q&A

Why did Connor McDavid call the Oilers an average team?

Connor McDavid labeled the Oilers as an 'average team' due to their inconsistent performance throughout the season, which led to their early playoff exit.

What was the outcome of the Oilers' playoff series against the Ducks?

The Edmonton Oilers were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Anaheim Ducks, who ended a seven-year playoff drought.

How did the Oilers perform in previous seasons before this year?

Before this season, the Oilers made back-to-back trips to the Stanley Cup Final, including a Game 7 loss in 2024.

What were the expectations for the Oilers this season?

The Oilers had high expectations this season after their recent success but ultimately fell short, leading to disappointment among players and fans.