The Edmonton Oilers took a long time to wake up, but once started their offensive machine proved too strong for the New York Rangers. With four unanswered goals, the Alberta team left Madison Square Garden in a 4-3 win on Saturday.
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The Blueshirts were 3-0 up after two periods and their advantage could have been even greater had not the two goals been disallowed after head coach Jay Woodcroft tackled the game.
These official decisions ultimately had ramifications for the Oilers. Evan Bouchard struck twice early in the third period to set the tone. Dylan Holloway leveled the game with a quick shot and scored his first goal of the National Hockey League.
Alexis Lafrenière, who has had a good game so far after scoring, got his team in hot water by picking up a roughness penalty. In a fight with Tyson Barrie near the boards, the Quebecer tore off the Oilers defenseman’s helmet.
The visitors took advantage of it immediately. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins found Leon Draisaitl on the edge of the net to add that power play success.
It was a tough third period for Igor Shesterkin, who gave up four times in eight shots. The last recipient of the Vézina Trophy faced 28 shots. At the other end of the rink, Jack Campbell was hit three times with 23 shots.
Chris Kreider and Julien Gauthier were the other scorers for Rangers.