NHL Playoffs 2017: 5 reasons Oilers can win Stanley Cup

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Apr 8, 2017; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Edmonton Oilers defenseman Adam Larsson (6) checks Vancouver Canucks forward Reid Boucher (24) during the first period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Their defense is legit

It’s weird to say that about the Oilers, but for this season, it’s been true. And it’s a big reason why they’re back in the playoffs. Last year, when the Oilers had the fourth overall pick, they finished 27th in goals against. This year, they’ve gone up to 8th. And last I checked, McDavid doesn’t play defense.

Even though everyone criticized Peter Chiarelli for the Taylor Hall-Adam Larsson trade, he proved that there was a method to that madness. That deal cleared up almost $2 million in cap space, addressed a position of need, and allowed the Oilers to sign Milan Lucic.

While Larsson isn’t solely responsible for their defensive turnaround, he has taken to playing top-pairing minutes very well, and has proven to be a great addition to this team. He has also helped Oscar Klefbom reach new heights. Prior to this season, Klefbom never hit more than 20 points – this year, he leads all Oilers defensemen with 38.

What’s also worth noting about the Oilers’ defensemen is their age. Andrej Sekera is their oldest blue-liner at 30, while Matt Benning, Klefbom, Larsson, and Darnell Nurse all range between 22-24 years old. So, while they’re good now, the Oilers’ primary defensive core all have yet to reach their prime. And if that doesn’t get fans excited, then nothing will.

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