Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch didn’t hold back when analyzing his team’s approach in their 3-2 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights on Tuesday. A dominant second-period surge proved to be the difference, as Edmonton capitalized on key adjustments to secure the win.
Meanwhile, despite the loss, Vegas clinched a playoff berth thanks to the Calgary Flames’ defeat against Utah Hockey Club. The Golden Knights, now 45-21-8, remain atop the Pacific Division with a five-point cushion over the Los Angeles Kings.
Jake Walman, Leon Draisaitl, and Viktor Arvidsson scored for the Oilers, while Evan Bouchard contributed two assists. Calvin Pickard made 20 crucial saves for the Oilers, who won their second straight game. Edmonton sits in third place in the Pacific Division, just two points behind the Kings.
“It looked like maybe it was a game plan to put them to sleep and then we would take over in the second period,” Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch said, according to NHL.com. “The execution wasn’t there, you know, missed passes, going offside, not able to generate very much just because we were just ending plays… We get a goal, and that gives us a lot more life. Our game was a lot better after that.”
Oilers vs Golden Knights: An explosive second period
Pavel Dorofeyev scored a goal and registered an assist for the Golden Knights, and Adin Hill made 17 saves. The loss ended the Golden Knights’ six-game winning streak. Roy opened the scoring for Vegas at 4:34 of the first period, taking advantage of Draisaitl’s turnover in the neutral zone.
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Walman tied the game at 1-1 in the 19th minute of the second period, beating Hill off the far post. This was Walman’s first goal with the Oilers since his acquisition from the San Jose Sharks on March 7. Draisaitl put the Oilers ahead 2-1, with a one-touch goal from the left circle during a 5-on-3 power play. This was his NHL-leading 52nd goal of the season.
Arvidsson extended the lead to 3-1, pushing the puck under Hill. Vegas challenged the play for goalie interference, but video review upheld the initial call. Dorofeyev cut the deficit to 3-2 in the third period, with a wrist shot through traffic from the spot. This was the 32nd goal of the season for Dorofeyev, the team leader.
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What’s next for Oilers?
The Oilers‘ victory, boosted by their strong performance in the second period, allows them to stay in contention for second place in the Pacific Division. The Golden Knights‘ playoff qualification, despite the loss, underscores their strength during the regular season. The Oilers’ ability to capitalize on their opportunities and the Golden Knights’ third-period reaction were key factors in the game’s outcome.
