Crucial stat suggests that Oilers will contend for multiple more Stanley Cups
It appears that a potent power play is becoming the determining factor for teams either making the playoffs or not according to this interesting stat.
The NHL skill set has been improving dramatically over the past several years and with more skilled players entering the league through the draft, their specialities are becoming more apparent, and the power play is a particular skill that NHL teams are depending on for success.
Much like the rise of the three-point shot in basketball, the power play can quickly determine the game in a matter of minutes. During the 2023-2024 season, the top 8 clubs with the most efficient power play all made the playoffs including the Oilers, Lightning, Hurricanes and the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Oilers were lethal with their man advantage especially down the stretch and through the bulk of the playoff run where the Oilers were #1.
The New York Rangers were an example of a team that had a strong power play which faded overtime and help the Florida Panthers defeat them in the Eastern Conference Final.
The power play has been tinkered with over time from the moment the Montreal Canadiens of the 1970s could win a game on one power play due the penalty not coming to an end even if goals are scored.
It was changed to end once one goal was scored which gave teams a chance but now with the rise in penalties especially puck over the ice penalties, the power play is the gold standard that everyone needs to have on their team.
| POLL | ||
Will the Oilers have the best powerplay next season? | ||
| Yes | 123 | 84.2 % |
| No | 23 | 15.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
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