The Edmonton Oilers are one game away from a Stanley Cup berth, while the Toronto Maple Leafs have been out of the running since losing their first-round series to the Boston Bruins ¹ ². Both teams have rosters of notable first-round picks, but the Oilers have seen more success with Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins making it to their second Western Conference Final ¹. However, the Oilers have not yet won a championship, and the question remains whether they are better off than the Maple Leafs if they don’t win the Stanley Cup this season ¹.
The Maple Leafs have core players like Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander, but they have only made it past the first round once in the last eight postseasons ¹. On the other hand, the Oilers have a strong duo in McDavid and Draisaitl, with McDavid regarded as the best player in the NHL ¹. Despite their success, the Oilers have not yet won a championship, and their lack of ultimate success puts them in a similar boat as the Maple Leafs ¹.
The Oilers seem to be in a far better position than the Maple Leafs, with a more successful playoff run and a stronger team dynamic ¹. However, both teams have a “cup or bust” mentality, and their ultimate goal is to win the Stanley Cup ¹. If the Oilers don’t win this season, they will still be considered a top contender next season ¹. The Maple Leafs, on the other hand, may need to make significant changes to their roster and coaching staff to get closer to their goal ¹.
In conclusion, while both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, the Oilers seem to be in a better position than the Maple Leafs at this point in the season ¹. However, the ultimate goal of winning the Stanley Cup is still elusive for both teams, and only time will tell if they can achieve it ¹.
