Elliotte Friedman highlights biggest disadvantage for Oilers after Game 3 loss

The Edmonton Oilers face growing pressure after a 7-4 Game 3 loss to the Anaheim Ducks , falling behind 2-1 in the first round NHL playoff series. The Ducks, back in the playoffs after seven seasons, have scored 16 goals in three games. That surge has exposed gaps in Edmonton’s structure despite their recent runs to the Stanley Cup Final in 2024 and 2025.

Speaking on Sportsnet, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman pointed to a key shift in belief. He said the Ducks now feel they can beat Edmonton, which changes the dynamic of the series. MORE: Connor McDavid urged to ‘breathe’ as struggles continue vs Ducks “When you’re going in for the first time, you hope you can win,” Friedman said about the Ducks’ belief in facing the Oilers.

“Now I think we’ve crossed into the threshold where the Ducks believe that they can beat the Edmonton Oilers. ” Friedman then discussed the Oilers’ upcoming decisions, including whether to start Tristan Jarry over Connor Ingram for the next game. “I think the Oilers are going to have some big decisions to make,” Friedman said.

“And I wouldn’t put this all on Ingram. It’s much bigger than that. But at the very least, I think they’re going to have to talk about whether they want to go to Jarry for Game 4.