Oilers Tie Stanley Cup Final with Dramatic OT Victory in Game 4

SUNRISE, Fla. (AP) — The Edmonton Oilers mounted an incredible comeback to defeat the Florida Panthers 5-4 in Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final on Thursday night. With this win, the series is now tied at two games apiece.

After falling behind 3-0 early in the first period, the Oilers rallied back with four unanswered goals, highlighted by Leon Draisaitl‘s overtime winner just 11:18 into the extra period. Draisaitl’s goal marks his second overtime goal of the series, making him the third player in NHL history to accomplish this feat in a single Stanley Cup Final.

The Panthers started strong with goals from Matthew Tkachuk and Anton Lundell, leaving the Oilers in a tough position. However, a goalie change from Stuart Skinner to Calvin Pickard helped shift momentum. Pickard, a backup goaltender, saved the first 18 shots he faced after entering the game in the first period.

Edmonton’s Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Darnell Nurse, and Vasily Podkolzin responded in the second period, tying the game and providing a burst of energy. Nugent-Hopkins opened the scoring for the Oilers, while relentless effort allowed them to take their first lead with Jake Walman‘s goal late in the third period.

Florida managed to equalize in the last seconds of regulation thanks to Sam Reinhart‘s late goal, which sent the game into overtime. Draisaitl’s game-winner not only brought the Oilers level in the series but also demonstrated their resilience as they look ahead to Game 5.

“That’s what we do: We’re a resilient group,” Draisaitl said after the game. “We’re never going to quit no matter what.”

The Oilers will host Game 5 at home on Saturday, June 18, where they aim to gain the advantage in the best-of-seven series.