The Edmonton Oilers have one of the best powerplay units in NHL history thanks to the likes of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Today, Patrice Bergeron, among other NHLers, discussed what it takes to shut that unit down in the playoffs.
The Spittin Chiclets podcast recently discussed the Oilers powerplay as it has been a huge factor in the series against the Los Angeles Kings. Ryan Whitney has high praise for the Oilers special teams, highlighting how special they have been in recent years but specifically in the playoffs against LA.
Patrice Bergeron, one of the best defensive centers in NHL history was asked how to stop the Oilers on the man advantage and he didn't offer a lot of advice. He broke down what makes the unit so strong, noting that teams can take away some options, but the Oilers top unit is so good, they're always going to find ways to get pucks through on net.
Henrik Lundqvist, one of the modern era's best goaltenders also broke down the Oilers powerplay on TNT during coverage of one of the Kings Oilers games. He gave a goalie's perspective, emphasizing the need to limit cross-ice passes.
Ultimately though, the best solution for any team is simply to stay out of the box. That is easier said than done when Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid are putting the pressure on, but it is a necessary adjustment the Kings will need to make in order to stay in the series. Should the Oilers advance, their future opponents will likely look to stay out of the box as much as possible as well.
