In a thrilling showdown, it was Brandon Saad’s overtime goal that sealed a 3-2 victory for the St. Louis Blues against the Edmonton Oilers on Monday night.
The Blues, invigorated by Brayden Schenn’s pair of goals and 35 saves from goaltender Jordan Binnington, have now bolstered their record to 8-2-1 over the last 11 games. This winning streak has brought them within three points of the Los Angeles Kings for the coveted Western Conference second wild card spot.
Despite goals from Mattias Ekholm and Leon Draisaitl, and 26 saves by Stuart Skinner, the Oilers couldn’t maintain their three-game winning streak. Saad’s 25th goal of the season ensured the Blues triumphed in overtime.
Draisaitl, assisted by Connor McDavid, scored his 39th goal to even the match at 2-2 with just over five minutes left in regulation, extending both his and McDavid’s point streaks to eight games.
Schenn’s successful one-time finish, off a Kasperi Kapanen assist early in the third period, had briefly put St. Louis ahead 2-1.
Earlier, Ekholm’s slap shot from the blue line 7:05 into the game had given the Oilers an initial 1-0 advantage. Edmonton had several opportunities to increase their lead, but were thwarted by circumstances and rulings. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins had a goal disallowed following a successful St. Louis challenge for goaltender interference, and Evander Kane had a score discounted for a high-sticking infraction.
Subsequently, Kane’s unsportsmanlike conduct penalty for removing Tyler Tucker’s helmet set up Schenn’s power-play goal, which tied the game at 1-1 in the second period, despite Edmonton’s challenge for goaltender interference.
UP NEXT
Oilers: Will face off against Dallas on Wednesday night.
Blues: Set to battle Nashville on Thursday night, kickstarting a three-game road trip.
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AP NHL: https://www.apnews.com/hub/NHL
FAQ
Who scored the winning goal for the St. Louis Blues?
Brandon Saad scored the winning goal 2:09 into overtime.
What was the final score of the game between the Blues and the Oilers?
The St. Louis Blues defeated the Edmonton Oilers 3-2.
What are the Blues’ standings after this game?
The Blues are three points behind the Los Angeles Kings for the Western Conference second wild card spot.
Did any players extend their points streak in this game?
Yes, Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid extended their points streaks to eight games.
When is the next game for both the Oilers and the Blues?
The Oilers are set to play Dallas on Wednesday night, while the Blues will play Nashville on Thursday night as part of a three-game road trip.
Conclusion
The intense encounter between the St. Louis Blues and the Edmonton Oilers showcased the competitive spirit of NHL hockey. With strong performances on both ends, it took an overtime goal from Brandon Saad to tip the scales in favor of the Blues. As the season progresses, each match’s impact on the standings brings a heightened sense of urgency and excitement. Fans can look forward to the upcoming fixtures as teams battle for playoff positioning and form.