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In a thrilling opener of their fourth consecutive playoff series, the Los Angeles Kings edged out the Edmonton Oilers with a 6-5 victory, a match that showcased a dramatic turn of events as the Kings squandered a four-goal lead before ultimately securing the win. Phillip Danault netted the decisive goal with just 42 seconds remaining, capping off a rollercoaster of a game.
Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledged the efforts of his star players, stating, “Connor and Leon made some really good plays to get us back in that game.” He noted issues in the game, particularly at even strength, where he felt the team had sufficient offensive time but failed to convert those opportunities into more goals. “There were some breakdowns that led to goals against,” he added, reflecting on the team’s defensive lapses.
The Kings appeared to be in control, leading 5-3 late into the third period. However, the Oilers mounted a comeback with Zach Hyman and Connor McDavid finding the net while playing with an extra attacker. Yet, Los Angeles struck back, with Danault skating through the middle and firing a tricky shot that eluded Edmonton goalie Stuart Skinner, thanks in part to a screen from Warren Foegele.
In a standout performance, Andrei Kuzmenko marked his Stanley Cup playoff debut by scoring one goal and assisting on two others. Adrian Kempe also contributed significantly, registering a goal and two assists for the Kings, who are keen to break their recent playoff losing streak against the Oilers. Remarkably, this victory made Los Angeles only the fourth team in playoff history to win a game in regulation after relinquishing a four-goal advantage.
Quinton Byfield and Kevin Fiala were also among the scorers, while Darcy Kuemper turned aside 20 shots in his first postseason game since winning the Stanley Cup with Colorado in 2022. Playing with home-ice advantage this time, the Kings built a 4-0 lead in the second period at their home arena, noted for having the best home record in the NHL. The Oilers, however, surged back with goals from Leon Draisaitl, Mattias Janmark, and Corey Perry. Hyman added another, followed by an astonishing equalizer from McDavid with just over a minute left in regulation.
Despite the loss, McDavid registered an impressive performance with one goal and three assists for the Oilers, who had reached the Stanley Cup Final last season. Skinner managed to save 24 shots but faced challenges from a resilient Kings offense.
Oilers forward Zack Hyman reflected on the game, acknowledging their need to play sharper. “We gave up too many opportunities. They were better than us in special teams, obviously,” he commented, pointing to the critical role special teams play in such tight matchups. Hyman also expressed some frustration over certain penalties called against the team, noting, “Some I didn’t think were penalties, but it is what it is.” He emphasized the need for the team to improve collectively for a stronger showing in the upcoming games.
Looking ahead, the teams will prepare for Game 2, which is set for Wednesday night in Los Angeles. Until then, fans will be eagerly anticipating how both teams will adjust and respond to the high stakes of playoff hockey.
Source
globalnews.ca