For the first time in what feels like forever, the Edmonton Oilers are playing someone new in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Tell me you are excited too for this. I know from a fan standpoint, I can’t be happier that this is all happening right now.

I’m absolutely stoked to be up against the Anaheim Ducks this time around. Sorry, L.A. Kings, but I am tired of you. But I do hope you can knock out the Colorado Avalanche and do everyone a favour. 

You know what else has me excited? The fact that Leon Draisaitl looks to be back and ready for Game 1.

Friday’s practice lines show him slotting back into the second centre spot, with Nuge moving down to the third line to spread the offence out a little bit, and more importantly, not disrupt what is happening on that top line. This is such great news for the Oilers and the fans.

The way this team ended this year, with the role players working hard and breaking out like they did, has completely renewed my confidence in this squad. I have full faith that the team going into this year’s playoffs can make another magical run. I fully believe that with returns like Hyman and Draisaitl, they will push the team back over the edge into being elite in the postseason.

Colton Dach and Trent Frederic have found their groove together. They have been a ton of fun to watch smashing anything that moves. I’ve seen someone refer to them as the Bash Brothers, and that is a bang-on assessment.

The youngster Matt Savoie, who is easily becoming one of my favourite players, is on a hot streak and has found chemistry with Connor McDavid to dominate on that top line. The kid gets me fired up every time he’s on the ice. I love this kid.

Connor Ingram has found his touch as well at the right time. He is a hilarious interview in scrums, but he has also been a pleasure to watch as his confidence grows and he takes the reins the way he has. The team needed this from Ingram, and they got it.

Oh, and it looks like Jason Dickinson is back now too. Essentially the entire team is ready to go for game one tonight.

Am I crazy to have this newfound trust in a team that did not really have it at the start of the season? Am I the only one who feels this way?

From my eyes, it is what I see. I believe in this team right now.

Let’s go, boys.

Edmonton, it’s time to dust off your best game fits—playoff season is here. And for every away game, The Sauce is taking over Greta Bar YEG as the official playoff headquarters. There ain’t no party like a Nation playoff party. Expect food and drink specials you can’t beat, t-shirt tosses, giveaways, games, and a few surprises we’ve been saving just for the Nation Citizens. Whether you’re coming for the game, the atmosphere, or just to get a little saucy with the crew, this is where you want to be when the team hits the road. Secure your table by texting Greta’s hotline at 1-587-418-8507.