Mark Spector

Sustained success the common thread in Stanley Cup Playoffs' final four

Mark Spector

Senior columnist Mark Spector is one of Canada’s leading voices on the NHL. Based in Edmonton, Spector gives Canadian hockey fans exclusive insight into the goings-on in NHL franchises while offering opinion and analysis of the Oilers.

'A different fire': Did Oilers save themselves for playoff push?

As the Oilers trudged through the regular season, a theory emerged that they were saving themselves for when it counted most. Now, Edmonton's playoff dominance has only added fuel to that fire.

Built to do 'whatever it takes,' Oilers oust Golden Knights in second round

Oilers Notebook: Leon Draisaitl 'gladly' doing whatever it takes to win

The true goal for the Oilers is the Stanley Cup, and that's the reason that Leon Draisaitl will take on the assignment of checking centre with no quarrels. Mark Spector has that and more notes ahead of Game 5.

Oilers' Kane leading charge as playoff difference-maker

Inside this "we" sport, Evander Kane has always been one to stand out. But that's what makes him who he is, and perhaps, what allows him to accomplish what he has this spring for the Oilers.

Impeccable structure, poised Skinner carry Oilers to dominant 3-1 lead

Notebook: Oilers seek boost with lineup shuffle for Game 4 vs. Golden Knights

For most of the last six periods, the Vegas Golden Knights have outplayed the Oilers. And so Edmonton coach Kris Knoblauch appears set to mix up his lines for Monday's Game 4. Sportsnet's Mark Spector has more in his pre-game notebook.

Draisaitl's rare off night underscores Oilers' deserved Game 3 loss

Sometimes great players have bad games. And sometimes, a team just gets what it deserves.

Oilers Notebook: Stuart Skinner returns for Game 3 in unique situation

Notebook: Oilers taking advantage of breaks going their way

The talk after Game 2 in the Oilers-Golden Knights series circled around a non-call ahead of Leon Draisaitl's game-winner. But, as Sportsnet's Mark Spector writes, you can't leave your fate in the hands of the zebras. And Edmonton took advantage of its good fortune.