When it comes to special teams in the Sharks and Oilers’ first round matchup, Edmonton holds a decided edge on the power play, while the two teams utilize below-average penalty kills. The Sharks’ underlying numbers indicate they may be due for an improvement in both areas, but the absence of the team’s top two centers may make any regression to the mean a moot point.

Power Play

Perhaps the biggest discrepancy on paper lies between the team’s power plays, The Oilers hold the edge, as Todd McLellan’s power play acumen coupled with Edmonton’s top-end skill has fostered one of the league’s best power plays.