The Toronto Maple Leafs have finally broken their first-round curse, and they did it in style.
William Nylander’s empty-net goal sealed the deal, sending Toronto to just their second Round 2 appearance since 2017. That’s a pretty big deal for a team that’s made the playoffs nine straight years.
What’s really different this time? Defense. The Leafs, usually known for their high-scoring games, locked things down tight. They only gave up 2.67 goals per game – the third-best in the playoffs.
They’ll face the Florida Panthers next, but for now, Toronto fans can finally celebrate getting past that Round 1 hurdle.
Meanwhile, out west, the Edmonton Oilers pulled off something special.
After falling behind 2-0 to the Los Angeles Kings, things looked pretty grim. But a gutsy move to switch goalies – bringing in Calvin Pickard for Stuart Skinner – changed everything.
The Oilers went on a tear, winning four straight to take the series in six games.
Here’s what’s really interesting: This wasn’t just the Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl show. Sure, they led the team (McDavid with 11 points, Draisaitl with 10), but the supporting cast stepped up big time.
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Connor Brown each scored three times. Zach Hyman, Corey Perry, and Evander Kane chipped in with two goals apiece.
The Oilers’ next challenge? The Vegas Golden Knights, who just knocked out the Minnesota Wild.
Speaking of Vegas, they’re looking like they might be the team to beat in the Western Conference.
After falling behind 2-1 to Minnesota, the defending Stanley Cup champs won three straight to advance. Their scoring came from everywhere – nine different players put up at least three points, with Tomas Hertl and Jack Eichel leading the way with five each.
The only question mark for Vegas is in net. Adin Hill’s .880 save percentage isn’t great, especially compared to his career playoff average of .922. If he can find his groove again, watch out.
It’s setting up for an incredible second-round matchup between Vegas and Edmonton. Can the Golden Knights’ defense handle McDavid and Draisaitl? That’s going to be fun to watch.
