In a historic Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final, the Edmonton Oilers staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the Florida Panthers 5–4 in overtime, tying the series 2–2. This victory marked the first time in 106 years that a road team overcame a three-goal deficit in a Stanley Cup Final game, a feat last achieved by the Montreal Canadiens in 1919 .
The Panthers dominated the first period, taking a 3–0 lead with goals from Matthew Tkachuk and Anton Lundell. However, the Oilers responded in the second period, with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Darnell Nurse, and Vasily Podkolzin scoring to tie the game. Jake Walman then gave Edmonton a 4–3 lead in the third period, capitalizing on a Florida turnover. Despite this, the Panthers pulled their goalie, and Sam Reinhart tied the game with 19.5 seconds remaining, sending it into overtime .
In the overtime period, Leon Draisaitl secured the win for the Oilers, scoring his fourth overtime goal of the playoffs at 11:18. This goal not only clinched the victory but also set a new record for the most overtime goals in a single postseason.
The Oilers’ comeback was fueled by a strategic goalie change, with Stuart Skinner being replaced by Jack Campbell, who made several key saves to keep Edmonton in the game. Additionally, the team’s special teams contributed significantly, with a power-play goal by Nugent-Hopkins and a shorthanded goal by Mattias Janmark.
Captain Connor McDavid also made history during the game, breaking Wayne Gretzky’s NHL record for most assists in a single postseason, with 32 assists. McDavid’s leadership and playmaking were instrumental in the Oilers’ offensive success .
This victory not only tied the series but also demonstrated the Oilers’ resilience and depth, with contributions from multiple players. As the series shifts back to Edmonton for Game 5, the Oilers look to capitalize on this momentum and continue their pursuit of the Stanley Cup.
