Introduction to the Stanley Cup Game 1
The Edmonton Oilers have started their Stanley Cup Final rematch against the Florida Panthers on a high note, winning Game 1 in overtime. The thrilling match saw the Oilers erase a multigoal deficit to secure a 4-3 victory.
The Game-Changing Goal
Leon Draisaitl scored on the power play in overtime, with Stuart Skinner making 29 saves to ensure the win. Draisaitl’s goal 19:29 into OT sent the home fans into a frenzy, making sure the Oilers would not start this series like they did a year ago, when they fell behind three games to none.
Early Game Highlights
The game began with Draisaitl’s goal 66 seconds in, followed by Sam Bennett deflecting a shot in past Stuart Skinner after falling into him. Edmonton’s Kris Knoblauch unsuccessfully challenged for goaltender interference, with the NHL’s situation room ruling that his own player, Jake Walman, tripped Bennett into Skinner. The resulting penalty paved the way for Florida’s Brad Marchand to score the go-ahead goal on the power play.
The Panthers’ Lead
Bennett scoring his second of the night early in the second period put the Panthers up 3-1. They entered 31-0 over the past three playoffs since coach Paul Maurice took over when leading at the first or second intermission.
The Oilers’ Rally
With Connor McDavid leading the way, the Oilers rallied. Fourth-liner Viktor Arvidsson brought the crowd back to life early in the second, and fellow Swede Mattias Ekholm — playing just his second game back from an extended injury absence — tied it with 13:27 remaining in regulation off a perfect pass from McDavid.
Crucial Saves
At the other end, Skinner made a handful of saves that were vital to keeping the Panthers from extending their lead or tying it late in the third. Florida counterpart Sergei Bobrovsky did the same, in between derisive chants of “Sergei! Sergei!” that followed goals he allowed. Skinner was greeted with friendlier chants of “Stuuuu” after saves, including one in the first minute of overtime on a quality scoring chance. Bobrovsky stone-cold robbed Trent Frederic nine minutes in but eventually cracked.
Up Next
Game 2 is Friday night in Edmonton before the series shifts to Sunrise, Florida for Games 3 and 4.
Conclusion
The Oilers’ win in Game 1 sets the tone for the remainder of the series. With their ability to erase a multigoal deficit and secure a win in overtime, they have shown their strength and resilience. The Panthers, on the other hand, will need to regroup and come back stronger in Game 2.
FAQs
- Q: Who scored the winning goal for the Edmonton Oilers in Game 1?
A: Leon Draisaitl scored the winning goal on the power play in overtime. - Q: What is the schedule for the next games in the series?
A: Game 2 is Friday night in Edmonton, followed by Games 3 and 4 in Sunrise, Florida. - Q: How many saves did Stuart Skinner make in Game 1?
A: Stuart Skinner made 29 saves in Game 1.
