48-29-5.

Good for third in the Pacific division and a date with the LA Kings in the first round. This probably isn’t where a lot of fans thought this season was going to go, but at least we’re in the playoffs.

The Oilers started this season with a resounding 6-0 shutout beatdown, handed to them by the eventual President’s Cup winners – the Winnipeg Jets. Right out of the gate this season looked very similar to last – not enough energy from first puck drop, not enough respect for the opponent’s desire (and ability) to score, and a habit of delivering a late push that very often did not convert into a point.

Unlike last year, the Oilers did not go 2-9-1 to start the year, but they are entering this year’s playoffs with a depleted roster. Zach Hyman is still day-to-day, alongside Troy Stetcher and Trent Frederic. Mattias Ekholm won’t be back until the second round – and there is doubt if he’ll even be able to play then. Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid have been battling injuries, and Evander Kane has been out all season.

Despite all that, the Oilers are still in a position to make a run. Draisaitl was able to dominate the LA Kings on one leg back in 2022 when he had a high ankle sprain. McDavid can score, at will, in any circumstance, and at any angle – it goes without saying that anything is possible when you have the NHL’s best player leading your team. It’s naive to count this team out.

Not only that, but this team has depth. Since the Four Nations tournament a slew of depth forwards and defenceman have been stepping up to the plate. Players like Connor Brown, Corey Perry, and new pickup Jake Walman have been a breath of fresh air. Keep in mind – this roster, missing almost half their cap space – was able to dominate the Winnipeg Jets 4-1 just last week.

Despite playing with a blown wheel for the last 20 games, the Oilers have gone 12-7-1. In that timespan they’ve out shot the opposition by 5, and made 100 more saves.

48-29-5 isn’t good enough for home ice, but it’s good enough for a ticket to the dance.

More to come Monday.