Connor McDavid Reveals The Biggest Key For The Edmonton Oilers To Take Down The Dallas Stars

Oilers captain Connor McDavid did not hesitate to talk to the media about the team's defense, but was also quick to refer to the power play as an area in desperate need of improvement when the team hits the ice for Round 3 against the Dallas Stars.

While the penalty kill has been the highlight reel of the playoffs, the power play has languished well behind the pace. In the second round, it only converted 9.1% of its chances, well below the team's usual 20% rate.

That funk has put extra pressure on the Oilers' top stars like McDavid and Leon Draisaitl to elevate their game. It is worth noting, however, that Edmonton had been given the least amount of power play time of any playoff team to this point.

In the playoffs, where each little thing matters, special units can be a difference-maker. A single dominant two-minute advantage will win a game, and possibly even a series.

If the Oilers' stars are bright and the team is also getting help from its depth, their chances of returning to the Stanley Cup Final look good.

McDavid's willingness to stand up for himself and his teammates is exactly the type of leadership this team requires now, and that is why Edmonton is a legitimate contender.

If they can follow through with what McDavid says, we will see them playing hockey well into the month of June.