In a tightly contested tactical battle in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Vegas Golden Knights managed to stifle the typically explosive offense of the Edmonton Oilers for much of Game 2. However, when the game reached a critical juncture in overtime, the brilliance of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl ultimately made the difference. Despite a relatively quiet night offensively, McDavid found just enough space to deliver a perfect setup to Draisaitl, who netted the game-winner in a dramatic 5–4 victory.
The Golden Knights had shown significant improvement in their defensive execution following their loss in Game 1, successfully limiting Oilers’ top line for the majority of the contest. Still, the game remained within reach, and McDavid’s ability to create scoring opportunities in high-pressure moments proved decisive once again.
With the win, Oilers takes a 2–0 lead in the best-of-seven series and heads home with momentum. Historically, NHL teams that win the first two games of a series on the road advance more than 80% of the time, giving the Oilers a distinct advantage.
McDavid’s admission
“Not our best, not my best, but we found a way,” said McDavid postgame, as quoted by NHL.com. “We get paid to score goals in big moments and we found a way to do it tonight.”
Oilers: A final spark when it mattered most
The Oilers had built a 4–2 lead during regulation but allowed Vegas to rally and tie the score. Edmonton failed to capitalize on multiple chances to close the game in regulation, including an extended five-minute power play. Though the McDavid-Draisaitl duo remained mostly subdued during the early stages, their impact was undeniable when it mattered most.
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The game-winning play began with a sharp puck recovery by Evan Bouchard, who ignited the transition. Corey Perry found McDavid in the neutral zone, who engaged Jack Eichel before drawing attention from Alex Pietrangelo. That movement created just enough space for Draisaitl, who surged forward and delivered a blistering one-timer past Adin Hill.
McDavid and Draisaitl: A familiar finish
The synergy between McDavid and Draisaitl continues to be one of the most reliable weapons in the NHL. The pair has now combined for over 100 game-winning goals during their time together in the regular season, and their clutch performances in the playoffs only add to that legacy.
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“We’ve come from behind lots, we obviously gave up a lead today, we’ve won overtime games and we’ve won different ways,” McDavid added. “You have to do that this time of year. The group is feeling confident, but I feel our best is still coming.”
