Leon Draisaitl scored the clinching goal and added three assists as the Edmonton Oilers handed the Anaheim Ducks its first loss in regulation, by a 5-3 count, since March 10. The Oilers took a 1-0 series lead and now have home-ice advantage.
In St. Louis, P.K. Subban scored a goal and collected two helpers as the Nashville Predators remained undefeated in the playoffs with a 4-3 win over the Blues the series-opener for those teams.
The other two second round series open tonight with the New York Rangers visiting the Ottawa Senators (CNBC 7 pm) and the Washington Capitals hosting the Pittsburgh Penguins (NBCSN 7:30 pm).
Now, a smattering of Florida Panthers stuff.
Prospect Samuel Montembeault made 34 saves to lead Blainville-Boisbriand to a 4-2 win over the Charlottetown Islanders in Game 4 of the QMJHL semifinals. The Armada took a 3-1 lead in the series. Montembeault’s playoff numbers: 11-2 / 1.94 GAA / .915 save percentage. Yes!
Kudos to defenseman Ian McCoshen on this honor.
This season’s Springfield Man of the Year and best D-man team award went to @ijmccoshen3 who had a +23, best among rookie d-men in @theahl. pic.twitter.com/G723lHsxOM
— Springfield T-Birds (@ThunderbirdsAHL) April 26, 2017
Let’s keep talking hockey in the comment section. Enjoy your Thursday.