Leon Draisaitl's Overtime Heroics Tie Stanley Cup Final at 2-2

Leon Draisaitl's fourth overtime goal this playoffs led the Edmonton Oilers to a thrilling 5-4 victory over the Florida Panthers, tying the Stanley Cup Final at 2-2.

In a dramatic Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final, Leon Draisaitl once again proved to be the hero for the Edmonton Oilers, scoring in overtime to secure a 5-4 victory over the Florida Panthers. This marks Draisaitl's fourth overtime goal this postseason, showcasing his clutch performance when it matters most.

The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the Oilers erasing a three-goal deficit to force overtime. Jake Walman gave the Oilers their first lead with 6:24 left in the third period, but Sam Reinhart tied the game with just 19.5 seconds remaining, sending the contest into extra time.

This is the third time in the first four games of this series that overtime was needed, a rare occurrence in the Stanley Cup Final, last seen in 2013. Draisaitl's goal at 11:18 into overtime not only secured the win but also tied the series at 2-2, setting up a crucial Game 5 in Edmonton.

The Oilers' comeback was historic, as they became the first road team to rally from a three-goal deficit in the Stanley Cup Final since the Montreal Canadiens in 1919. Only six teams in NHL history have achieved this feat, with the last occurrence in 2006.

Key Moments:

  • First Period: The Panthers dominated early, with Matthew Tkachuk scoring twice and Anton Lundell adding another goal, putting Florida up 3-0.
  • Goaltender Change: Oilers' coach Kris Knoblauch pulled starter Stuart Skinner after he allowed three goals on 17 shots, bringing in Calvin Pickard, who made 18 saves and kept the Oilers in the game.
  • Comeback: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Darnell Nurse, and Vasily Podkolzin scored to tie the game, setting the stage for Draisaitl's overtime heroics.

With the series now tied, both teams are just two wins away from claiming the Stanley Cup. Game 5 promises to be another intense battle as the Oilers look to take the lead on home ice.

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