The Anaheim Ducks lead the Edmonton Oilers 3-1 in their first-round NHL Playoffs series — and if they close it out in Game 5, it will rank among the most stunning upsets in recent playoff history.
How did this happen?
The Ducks — in the playoffs for the first time since 2018 after ending an eight-year drought — have simply outplayed one of the most talented teams in the NHL. They have been faster, more physical and sharper in all three zones.
Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl and the Oilers have looked flat. McDavid has been largely neutralised by Anaheim’s defensive structure — not through individual matchups but through relentless team defence that has taken away his favourite areas of the ice.
Anaheim’s Game 3 performance was particularly remarkable — a 7-4 win in Edmonton that essentially took the crowd and the momentum out of the series.
What’s at stake in Game 5
Game 5 tips off Tuesday 29 April at 10pm ET — that’s 12pm AEST on Wednesday 30 April. It is on TNT in the US, which means NHL.TV is the option for Australian fans.
A Ducks win eliminates Edmonton and sends one of the most popular teams in Australian hockey fandom home. An Oilers win keeps the series alive and sets up what would be a fascinating Game 6 back in Anaheim.
The bigger picture
If Edmonton are eliminated it raises serious questions about their roster construction heading into next season. McDavid is 29 years old and in his prime — every first-round exit is a wasted year of his career peak.
For Anaheim, reaching the second round would be a genuine statement that their rebuild is complete and ahead of schedule.
How to watch in Australia
- NHL.TV — available for Australian viewers with no blackouts
- Kayo Sports — check schedule for ESPN selections
Check our US Sports TV Guide for all NHL game times in AEST.
Last updated: Tuesday 29 April 2026
