The 2025 NHL playoffs continue to deliver exciting action nightly. Thursday`s games featured crucial performances from key players, prominently featuring Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel.
Facing a potential 2-0 series hole before heading to Carolina, the Washington Capitals saw Tom Wilson step up his game significantly, helping them tie the series. Wilson wasn`t just physically imposing against the Hurricanes; he also demonstrated skill, contributing to John Carlson`s game-winning goal.
In the late game, Jack Eichel of the Golden Knights was constantly involved, expertly reading the play. He showcased exceptional vision, assisting on his team`s first three goals. Eichel`s mastery of the Oilers` penalty kill during two power plays was particularly effective, setting up a pair of goals for Victor Olofsson.
As impressive as Eichel`s performance was, he was ultimately outshone by arguably the world`s best player. While Eichel was instrumental in the Golden Knights` third-period comeback to force overtime, it was Connor McDavid who delivered the decisive moment with the game on the line.
Following another night of thrilling playoff hockey, let`s recognize the top performances with our 3 Stars of the Night.
3. Jack Eichel | C | Golden Knights
Eichel was arguably the most noticeable player in Game 2, consistently generating scoring opportunities whenever he controlled the puck. Despite some defensive and goaltending lapses from Vegas, Eichel`s brilliant offensive play kept them in the game, though the performance of his teammates was inconsistent.
Eichel`s career-high 66 regular-season assists demonstrate his refined playmaking, which has carried over effectively into the playoffs. He directly contributed to Vegas`s first three goals, recording an assist on each. His most skillful pass came during a third-period power play, where he patiently found a lane to thread a precise cross-ice pass to Victor Olofsson for a goal.
2. Tom Wilson | RW | Capitals
Tom Wilson perfectly embodies the player you despise as an opponent but cherish as a teammate. This dynamic was evident in Game 2; he actively sought to frustrate the Hurricanes while also contributing offensively.
True to form, Wilson brought his physical presence throughout the game, but his influence extended beyond hits. The imposing forward displayed offensive skill on the Capitals` game-winning goal. Positioned in the power play bumper spot, Wilson demonstrated excellent awareness, finding a surging John Carlson for a simple finish. He sealed Washington`s victory by scoring an empty-net goal.
1. Connor McDavid | C | Oilers
For approximately 75 minutes, the Golden Knights managed to contain Connor McDavid exceptionally well. However, such containment is difficult to sustain indefinitely. When the stakes were highest – with the game on the line in overtime – McDavid produced the single most impactful play, securing a 2-0 series lead for Edmonton.
About five minutes into overtime, McDavid gained possession in the neutral zone and accelerated dramatically. Skating towards the Vegas zone, he deked past Eichel with an incredible stick-handling move, creating a 2-on-1 rush with Leon Draisaitl. McDavid then made a perfect pass to Draisaitl, who had an open net for the game-winning goal. This play marked McDavid`s 14th playoff point, placing him second in league scoring.
