News - Oilers Edge Golden Knights with Resilience and Grit

The Edmonton Oilers showcased significant resilience in their recent 4-3 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights. Commanding a dominant 2-0 lead after the first period, thanks to contributions from Connor McDavid and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, the Oilers seemed poised to cruise when Nugent-Hopkins added his second goal early in the second period. Zach Hyman further extended the lead to 4-0 midway through the frame. However, the Golden Knights ignited a comeback, with Tomas Hertl trimming the Oilers' lead with a power-play goal at 12:59 of the second period. The third period saw a surge from Vegas as Pavel Dorofeyev and Mitch Marner scored in quick succession, narrowing the gap to 4-3 early on. Oilers' coach Kris Knoblauch smartly utilized a timeout following Marner's goal to calm his squad. This tactical move and the efforts of netminder Connor Ingram, who stepped up post-triple-scores against him, proved essential. Ingram, recently elevated from the AHL's Bakersfield Condors following Tristan Jarry's injury, made crucial saves to retain the lead and secure the win. With Stanley Cup ambitions in mind, this game signified the Oilers' fortitude and potential growth, contrasting their past tendencies to squander multi-goal leads. Connor Ingram's poised performance, especially as he resumes NHL play after being traded from Utah, underscores the team's depth and readiness to handle adversities. Looking ahead, with Tristan Jarry expected to be sidelined for a few weeks, Ingram may continue to see more action, though Calvin Pickard is set to start the Oilers' next game against the Flames before the holiday break. This promising display against a veteran team like the Golden Knights exemplifies the progress Edmonton has made as they aim for greater goals this season.