Anaheim Ducks Break 7-Year Playoff Drought: Watch Ducks-Oilers Free

The Anaheim Ducks have returned to the NHL playoffs for the first time since the 2017-18 season. They finally broke a seven-year playoff drought and will open a first-round series against the Edmonton Oilers.

Context and team form

Anaheim finished 43-33-6 in Joel Quenneville’s first season as head coach. A 2-6-2 record in the final 10 games left the Ducks as the Pacific Division’s No. 3 seed.

The Oilers finished 41-30-11 and claimed the Pacific’s No. 2 seed. Edmonton arrives after consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances.

Historical note

The Ducks last won a playoff series in 2017. That seven-game second-round victory came against the Oilers, two years after Connor McDavid entered the league.

Game 1 details

Game 1 is scheduled for April 20 at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta. The puck drops at 7 p.m. PT / 10 p.m. ET on ESPN2.

What players are saying

Edmonton’s captain emphasized that playoff hockey demands a different approach. He said the team believes its postseason experience is an advantage.

How to watch

If you don’t have cable, use a live TV streaming service. To watch Ducks-Oilers free, consider short-term streaming trials and day passes.

• DIRECTV: five-day free trial of the MySports pack, which carries ESPN2.
• DIRECTV after trial: promotional price $44.99/month for the first two months.
• Sling TV: Orange Day Pass for $4.99 gives 24-hour access to ESPN2.
• Sling also offers weekend and week-long passes lasting three to seven days.

Playoff schedule

*Games 5–7 listed if necessary.

Notes on coverage

Filmogaz.com compiled these viewing tips and schedule details. The information helps cord-cutters choose practical streaming options.