ANAHEIM — The Edmonton Oilers orchestrated a thrilling comeback win, defeating the Anaheim Ducks 5-3 at the Honda Center on Friday, highlighted by Evander Kane’s standout hat trick performance. This victory marked Kane’s eighth career hat trick, showcasing his scoring prowess and contributing significantly to the Oilers’ success.
Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid also played pivotal roles in the victory, with Draisaitl scoring a goal and adding an assist, while McDavid provided three assists to fuel the Oilers’ offense. Goaltender Calvin Pickard made 24 saves, helping Edmonton bounce back from a recent loss and secure their 30th win of the season.
The Ducks, despite a valiant effort, saw their four-game point streak come to an end. Ryan Strome’s two goals and Cam Fowler’s goal and assist were not enough to overcome the Oilers’ late surge. John Gibson, who made 19 saves before leaving due to cramps, and his replacement Lukas Dostal, who added eight saves, faced a relentless Oilers attack that scored three goals in the final period to clinch the win.
The game was tightly contested, with the Ducks initially holding a lead. However, the Oilers’ explosive offense came alive in the third period, with Zach Hyman’s goal tying the game before Draisaitl’s power-play goal gave Edmonton the lead. Kane’s empty-net goal sealed the Ducks’ fate, emphasizing the Oilers’ ability to mount a comeback.
Anaheim’s coach Greg Cronin praised his team’s effort and strategy against the Oilers’ top players, acknowledging the competitive nature of the game. Despite the loss, the Ducks showed resilience and a strong work ethic, characteristics they hope to build on in future matchups.
This game also highlighted Kane’s significant contribution to the Oilers since joining the team, with his hat tricks tying him with franchise legends in the record books. McDavid’s continued excellence was also on display, extending his point streak and dominating in matchups against the Ducks.
As the Oilers look to continue their winning ways, the Ducks aim to regroup and return to their recent form. Both teams are set to face their next opponents, with the Oilers seeking to maintain their momentum and the Ducks looking to bounce back from this setback.
