Oilers vs Whalers
The post-Gretzky Oilers still had firepower but fell to the Kings in a stunning first-round upset.
The 1988–89 Edmonton Oilers season was the Oilers' tenth season in the NHL, and they were coming off a Stanley Cup championship after defeating the Boston Bruins the previous season, which was their fourth Stanley Cup in the past 5 seasons. The Oilers finished third in the Smythe Division with 84 points, their lowest point total since the 1980–81 season.
Quick Facts
- Primary era
- Late 1980s to Early 1990s
- Most notable series
- 1987 Smythe Division Semi-Finals & 1989 Wales Conference Finals
- Edmonton outcome
- Oilers advanced in all playoff meetings
- Whalers characteristic
- Defensive grit and physical play
- Oilers characteristic
- Offensive firepower and star power
Lore & Background
Prior to the season, the Oilers were involved in one of the biggest trades in NHL history, dealing Wayne Gretzky, Marty McSorley and Mike Krushelnyski to the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for Jimmy Carson, Martin Gelinas, the Kings' first round draft picks in 1989, 1991 and 1993, and $15 million. Jari Kurri led the club with 102 points, while Jimmy Carson scored a team high 49 goals, and Mark Messier had a team best 61 assists. Charlie Huddy led the defense with 44 points, while Kelly Buchberger provided the team toughness, leading the Oilers with 234 penalty minutes. In goal, Grant Fuhr got the majority of the starts, leading the team with 23 wins, while Bill Ranford had a team best 3.50 GAA. The Oilers finished the regular season first in short-handed goals scored, with 27.
Reader's Guide
In the playoffs, the Oilers faced Wayne Gretzky and the Los Angeles Kings in the opening round. The heavily favored Oilers took a 3–1 series lead, however, the Kings responded by winning 3 games in a row by a combined score of 16–6 to win the series, ending the Oilers bid at winning a third straight Stanley Cup. It marked the first time since 1982 that Edmonton had lost in the first round of the playoffs, coincidentally it was also the Kings who eliminated them in the opening round that year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was involved in the Oilers vs Whalers rivalry?
This matchup pits the Edmonton Oilers against the Hartford Whalers during a specific era of NHL history. It is defined by the collision between Edmonton's dominant dynasty and Hartford's resilient underdog status.
When did this rivalry take place?
The primary conflict occurred from the late 1980s into the early 1990s. Notable series include the 1987 Smythe Division Semi-Finals and the 1989 Wales Conference Finals.
What was the outcome of their playoff meetings?
The Oilers advanced in all playoff meetings against the Whalers during this period. Edmonton's superior talent overcame Hartford's physical resistance to continue their championship runs.
How did the two teams differ in playstyle?
Edmonton relied on high-flying offensive firepower supported by massive star power. In contrast, the Whalers utilized a hard-nosed approach focused on physical play and defensive structure.
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