Connor McDavid says a Stanley Cup was too high of an expectation for the "average" 2025-26 Edmonton Oilers. "We're searching for consistency all year. We didn't find it here in the playoffs," McDavid told reporters after the Oilers were eliminated from the playoffs with a Thursday night Game 6 loss to the Anaheim Ducks.

The Edmonton Oilers crashed out of the playoffs after a 5-2 loss to the Anaheim Ducks in Game 6 on April 30. Anaheim sealed the first-round series 4-2 with sharp execution and early control. Edmonton fell behind quickly and

Edmonton’s Game 5 win did more than extend the series. It reset the mood. Connor McDavid delivered when needed, even if not at full dominance, while the team showed improved structure and control. His postgame comments reflected realism rather than hype,

It wouldn't necessarily feel like the most glamorous of destinations for Connor McDavid. But from a hockey standpoint, watching him play with Macklin Celebrini on the San Jose Sharks would be quite the pairing.