The Stanley Cup playoffs are heating up with key matchups in the second round. The Edmonton Oilers showcased their depth and star power, with Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evan Bouchard dominating the Vegas Golden Knights early on, proving their offensive prowess and defensive improvements. McDavid and Draisaitl's presence has transformed their playoff performance compared to previous years, allowing other players to shine, including Connor Brown and Matias Janmark. The Oilers' defense has stepped up nicely despite the absence of Matias Ekholm.

Meanwhile, the matchup between the Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes has sparked a debate on quantity versus quality in playoff performance. With the Hurricanes' fast-paced, four-line roll strategy, the Capitals rely heavily on their star players, particularly Alex Ovechkin. The effectiveness of Washington's power play and their ability to generate high-quality chances will be crucial. The playoff atmosphere is intense, with both series promising to deliver exciting hockey as teams vie for a place in the conference finals.