Kapanen’s 2nd goal of game with 1:54 remaining lifts Oilers over Ducks 4-3 in playoff opener

The Edmonton Oilers kicked off their first-round playoff series with a thrilling 4-3 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Monday night. Kasperi Kapanen emerged as the hero of the game, scoring two crucial goals, including the game-winner with just 1:54 left in the third period.

Jason Dickinson also had a standout performance for the Oilers, finding the back of the net twice. Despite squandering a 2-0 lead and trailing 3-2 entering the third period, Edmonton showed resilience and determination to come out on top.

One of the key storylines of the game was the return of Oilers star Leon Draisaitl, who had missed the final 14 regular-season games due to injury. Draisaitl made an immediate impact, recording two assists along with Jake Walman. However, Connor McDavid was held without a point in the game.

The Oilers, led by McDavid, are aiming for their third consecutive trip to the Stanley Cup Final after falling short in the last two seasons against the now-missed Florida Panthers.

On the other side, Troy Terry stood out for the Ducks with two goals and an assist, while Leo Carlsson also found the back of the net. Connor Ingram made 25 saves, including a crucial stop in the dying seconds of the game, to secure the win for Edmonton. Lukas Dostal made 30 saves for Anaheim in a valiant effort.

Game 2 of the best-of-seven series is set to take place on Wednesday in Edmonton, where both teams will look to gain an advantage.

The Oilers got off to a strong start in the game, with Walman setting up Dickinson for the opening goal late in the first period. Kapanen doubled the lead just a minute later, scoring his first goal of the playoffs off a feed from Draisaitl.

Despite a strong start from Edmonton, the Ducks fought back in the second period. Terry scored just 19 seconds into the frame, sparking a comeback for Anaheim. Carlsson and Terry each scored again to tie the game and then take the lead on the power play.

However, Edmonton responded with determination, tying the game at 3 with Dickinson’s second goal of the night. The Oilers then took the lead for good as Vasily Podkolzin set up Kapanen for the game-winning goal.

Overall, it was a thrilling and closely contested matchup between the Oilers and Ducks, setting the stage for an exciting series ahead.

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