Connor McDavid knows that disappointment is part of life in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But the Edmonton Oilers captain is not one to dwell on it for long.
After letting a lead slip in Game 1 against the Dallas Stars in the Western Conference Final, the Oilers are ready to bounce back in Game 2, taking place early Saturday morning SA time.
“This team has always responded well in moments like this,” said McDavid. “We’ve faced setbacks in past playoff runs and found a way to come back strong. I believe we’ll do it again.”
Edmonton has played in 12 playoff series over the last four years and has experienced its fair share of frustrating defeats. In Game 1, they were up 3-1 heading into the final period but gave away three goals while on the penalty kill. They ended up losing 6-3. It was the first time since 1992 that they gave up three power play goals in one period.
“We were really good for 40 minutes and poor for 20,” McDavid said. “We had a two-goal lead in the third and took some penalties. We need to kill those off. Letting in three is just not good enough.”
Head coach Kris Knoblauch believes the team’s experience will help them recover.
“A few years ago we may not have been able to respond, but this group has matured,” he said. “It was a tough loss, but I saw plenty of positives. We just need to improve in key areas.”
The Oilers are no strangers to tough losses. In the second round against Vegas, Leon Draisaitl accidentally knocked the puck into his own net with less than a second to go. In the first round, a comeback led by McDavid was spoiled by a late goal from the Kings.
Each time, Edmonton responded. After the Vegas mistake, they played one of their best games of the playoffs, winning 3-0. They came from behind to beat the Kings by winning four straight.
“We’ve done well under pressure,” said McDavid. “Game 2 is another big test. If we clean up a few things, the result could be different.”
The Oilers are hoping to split the first two games before heading home to Edmonton for Game 3. Having played well for most of Game 1, they believe there is a strong base to build from.
“We didn’t ease into the game, we played hard from the start,” said Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. “They’re a dangerous team and we have to be sharp from the first minute.”
Despite the setback, the Oilers remain confident.
“We know what we are capable of,” said forward Connor Brown. “They are dangerous but so are we. It is all about staying focused and finishing strong.”
Photo: Stacy Revere/Getty Images
