A second resurgence, uncommonly securing a victory in the initial game of a playoff series for the Edmonton Oilers.

Hockey's Comeback Kings: Edmonton Oilers Snatch Game 1 Victory Against Vegas Golden Knights

Las Vegas, baby! The Edmonton Oilers bagged a unexpected victory, snatching the first game of their second-round series against the Vegas Golden Knights. This triumph was no ordinary win, as it was their third series opener success in the last six post-season appearances.

The thrilling 4-2 scoreline was a testament to the Oilers' resilience, especially considering they came from behind to clinch the victory. Game 2 is set for Thursday at T-Mobile Arena.

Zach Hyman, one of the Oilers' forwards, praised the victory, stating, "Stealing one in their rink gives us a great opportunity. We haven't been in this position much, so it's refreshing to have a lead in the series before it goes south."

Mark Stone netted two goals for Vegas before Corey Perry halved the deficit by the end of the first period. Despite the Oilers registering twelve shots in the second compared to Vegas' solitary strike, the Golden Knights maintained a 2-1 lead going into the third period.

However, the tide turned in the third, with Leon Draisaitl leveling the score just 57 seconds in. Hyman then scored the go-ahead goal with three minutes remaining, before Connor Brown sealed it with a breakaway goal a minute and sixteen seconds later.

The Oilers' turnaround in the third period is a recurring theme for them, as they have outscored opponents 18-6 during this stage in the playoffs, setting a new record in the NHL[1][5].

Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch credited the team's maturity and experience as keys to their comeback ability. "We've been in many different situations in the playoffs, and our players handle it well," he said[1][5].

Connor McDavid contributed two assists during the game, bringing his career playoff assist tally to 91 in 81 games. This marked him as the second-fastest player in history to reach 90 after Wayne Gretzky[1][5].

In goal, Calvin Pickard recorded 15 saves, becoming the first Oilers goalie to go 5-0 in the playoffs since Grant Fuhr in 1985[1][5]. Pickard's solid performance was evident in the penalty kill during the third period, as he thwarted Thomas Hertl's attempt on a power play[1][5].

John Klingberg, who joined the Oilers last January and underwent double hip surgery in the offseason, played a crucial role in the game, providing the assist for Hyman's go-ahead goal[1][5]. Since entering the lineup, Klingberg has proved a valuable asset, replacing some of Mattias Ekholm's absent quality minutes[1][5].

Evan Bouchard notched two assists, reaching a career total of 50 playoff assists in just his 60th game[1][5]. This achievement places Bouchard as the second-quickest to the milestone, following in the footsteps of hockey legend Bobby Orr[1][5].

Meanwhile, Adin Hill, the Golden Knights' goalie, impressed by stopping a long-range effort from Bouchard that deflected off Draisaitl and into the net near the beginning of the third period[1][5].

While the Golden Knights would have preferred a better start, they will undoubtedly be eager to correct their mistakes and even the series in Game 2. Meanwhile, the Oilers will look to build on their newfound momentum as they aim for an unprecedented run in the playoffs.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 6, 2025.

Sources:1. Edmonton Oilers Record Comeback in Game 1 against Vegas Golden Knights2. Edmonton Oilers' Comeback Wins in the Playoffs3. NHL Stat Leaders, including Statistics for Teams and Individual Players4. Hockey Reference, Detailed Playoff Statistics for the Edmonton Oilers5. Edmonton Oilers Score Multiple Third-Period Goals to Prevail against Vegas Golden Knights in Game 1 of the Second Round

In 2025, Toronto's business scene may see a boost as the Edmonton Oilers continue their winning streak in hockey, with their recent victory against Vegas Golden Knights being another impressive addition to their repertoire.
As the Oilers advance in the NHL playoffs, Ryan Hyman's contributions, such as the go-ahead goal against Vegas, have definitely been instrumental in their success.
By 2025, John Klingberg, a key acquisition for the Edmonton Oilers, has proven his worth, helping the team secure valuable wins, such as Game 1 against the Vegas Golden Knights.
In the next five years, Connor McDavid's rapid ascent in the NHL playoffs is expected to continue, with his current 91 career playoff assists in 81 games placing him second in history for reaching 90 the quickest.
Mobile apps focusing on sports news and statistics are likely to see increased usage, as fans keep track of the Edmonton Oilers' progress in the playoffs and their bid to claim the Stanley Cup in 2025.