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London Knights Sweep Erie Otters in Dramatic Overtime
In an unusual twist of fate, the London Knights celebrated not one, but two overtime winning goals during Game 4 of their Western Conference semi-final series against the Erie Otters. Sam O’Reilly’s decisive goal at 6:49 of the overtime period secured a thrilling 4-3 victory for London and a 4-0 series sweep.
Initially, it seemed like the Knights had clinched the game just 2:32 into overtime when Kasper Halttunen found the back of the net. However, a lengthy review determined that the play was offside, allowing the game to continue.
Shortly after, Easton Cowan stormed deep into Otters territory, delivering a perfect pass through a defender that set up O’Reilly’s crucial goal, which ultimately withstood a challenge for goaltender interference after a brief review.
O’Reilly’s performance stood out as he contributed two goals and two assists in the game. Cowan also had a noteworthy game, scoring one goal and assisting on two others. O’Reilly’s impressive long pass allowed Cowan to break away for a stunning opening goal just under seven minutes into the first period. The Otters responded with a quick goal from Pano Fimis late in the first, leaving the teams tied at 1-1 as they headed to the locker rooms.
Tight Contest Unfolds
The Otters managed to take their first lead since Game 2 when Ty Henry’s knuckling attempt into the slot found its way past the Knights’ goaltender at the 3:35 mark of the second period. London quickly rebounded with back-to-back power play goals, first from Sam Dickinson assisted by captain Denver Barkey, and then from O’Reilly, putting the Knights ahead 3-2 late in the second period.
However, Malcolm Spence of the Otters pulled the game level again at 3-3 early in the third period after capitalizing on a centering feed, setting the stage for the overtime drama that followed.
In terms of statistics, the Knights outshot the Otters by a significant margin of 50-28 and showcased a strong special teams performance, going 2-for-4 on the power play while successfully killing all four penalties they faced.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, the Knights now prepare to face either the Windsor Spitfires or the Kitchener Rangers in the next round of the playoffs.
Knights Select New Talent in U-18 Priority Selection
The Ontario Hockey League’s U-18 Priority Selection took place on April 16, resulting in the selection of 51 new prospects. The London Knights picked defenceman Martin Maryanovsky with their first round selection at 20th overall, who previously played with the Toronto Jr. Canadiens. Additionally, they selected winger Parker Graham from the Elgin-Middlesex Canucks.
Three players from the Canucks were drafted, including Chase Pettipiece who was selected 8th overall by the Flint Firebirds, and Cole Edmundson at number 42 by the Sarnia Sting. The Elgin-Middlesex Canucks are set to compete in the Telus Cup national U-18 championship starting April 21 in Fraser Valley, British Columbia.
Marner Reaches 100 Points
In other notable news, former London Knight Mitch Marner achieved a significant milestone by joining the ranks of iconic players like Darryl Sittler, Doug Gilmour, and Auston Matthews as one of the only players in Toronto Maple Leafs history to record 100 points in a single season. As the NHL season approaches its final night, Marner is tied with Connor McDavid for fifth place in the league standings. The Maple Leafs are slated to begin their playoff series against the Ottawa Senators on Sunday, April 20 at 7 p.m.
Source
globalnews.ca