The stage is set for a classic West Coast clash in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Edmonton Oilers and Anaheim Ducks, separated by just a single point in the regular season standings, are primed for a thrilling first-round series that promises high stakes and unpredictable hockey.

For the Ducks, this marks a triumphant return to the postseason after an eight-year drought. The energy in Anaheim will be electric as a hungry, revitalized squad looks to make a statement against a perennial contender. Meanwhile, the Oilers are on a mission fueled by recent heartbreak, having fallen to the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final two years running. With that hurdle now absent from the bracket, Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and company are laser-focused on finally completing their championship quest.

This series is a fascinating study in contrasting narratives. The experienced, battle-tested Oilers, known for their explosive offense and dramatic comebacks, face a Ducks team playing with house money and nothing to lose. It’s a matchup that could very well go the distance, making every shift and every game must-watch hockey.

Ready to catch all the action? Here’s everything you need to know to watch the Oilers vs. Ducks series, including broadcast details and key dates for the 2026 playoffs.

You can catch the games across multiple national networks. For live streaming, every playoff game is available on DIRECTV, which offers a free trial for new users. Matchups on ABC and ESPN can also be streamed via the ESPN app or on fubo, which also provides a free trial option for new subscribers.