The Stanley Cup Final has delivered high drama through its opening games. With the Florida Panthers leading the series 2–1, the Edmonton Oilers mounted a remarkable comeback in Game 4, overturning a 3–0 deficit to take a 4–3 lead. The Panthers rallied late to tie the game at 4–4, sending the contest into a third overtime period in the series.
The thrilling suspense ended when Leon Draisaitl scored the game-winning goal, giving the Oilers a 5–4 victory and leveling the series at two games apiece. This clutch performance sets the stage for a critical Game 5 in Edmonton on Saturday, where the momentum could swing decisively in the Oilers’ favor.
Connor McDavid Approaches a Rare Playoff Benchmark
Heading into this crucial matchup, Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid is edging closer to a significant playoff achievement. Following his assist in Game 4, McDavid now has accumulated 149 points over 94 career playoff games, according to OptaSTATS. Among NHL greats, only Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux reached the 150-point mark in fewer postseason appearances—Gretzky with 68 games and Lemieux with 86.
Though McDavid has yet to score a goal in this series, his influence remains undeniable. He has contributed six assists in the first four games, consistently orchestrating the Oilers’ offense and proving indispensable in high-pressure moments.
Wayne Gretzky Celebrates McDavid’s Impact on and off the Ice
NHL legend Wayne Gretzky shared his admiration for McDavid after Game 1 during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. He praised McDavid as “the best player in hockey,” highlighting the captain’s selfless approach to the game and his deep connection to Edmonton.
“There’s no question he’s the best player in hockey,”
Gretzky said.
“He’s an unselfish young man. He loves playing in Edmonton, he loves being the captain of the Oilers. He wants desperately to win a Stanley Cup—that’s all he wants. That’s what he cares about the most right now. He’s just been great for our game; he’s been great for the city of Edmonton.”
The Significance of McDavid’s Milestone in the Playoff Race
Connor McDavid nearing this historic playoff milestone underlines his growing legacy as one of hockey’s elite. As the Oilers face a critical Game 5, McDavid’s leadership and playmaking ability remain vital to Edmonton’s hopes of capturing their first Stanley Cup in decades. Reaching or surpassing 150 playoff points would place him alongside legends Gretzky and Lemieux, further cementing his place in NHL history.
With the series finely poised and the spotlight on McDavid, the upcoming games will reveal if he can translate this remarkable milestone into ultimate team success on the ice.