The Stanley Cup Playoffs continue to deliver thrilling hockey action every night, and Monday was no exception.
Monday`s games began with the Carolina Hurricanes securing a 5-2 home victory over the Washington Capitals in Game 4. Taylor Hall led the Hurricanes with a goal and an assist, scoring the decisive goal in the third period. Carolina controlled the game from the start and now holds a strong 3-1 series advantage.
In the other game, the Edmonton Oilers also took a 3-1 series lead after defeating the Golden Knights 3-0 in Game 4. Adam Henrique was a key offensive player with two goals, and goaltender Stuart Skinner earned a shutout by stopping all 24 shots.
Following another intense night on the ice, let`s highlight some standout performances from Monday`s playoff contests, the “Three Stars of the Night.”
3. Taylor Hall | Carolina Hurricanes
Initially acquired in a multi-team trade where Mikko Rantanen was the main target, Taylor Hall proved his value on Monday. His crucial contribution helped the Hurricanes secure a victory, putting them just one win away from advancing to the Eastern Conference Final for the second time in four years.
In the third period, with Carolina holding a narrow 2-1 lead, Jack Roslovic sent a long pass up the ice to Hall. Hall received it and fired a snap shot past Capitals goalie Logan Thompson. Just over four minutes later, Hall further influenced the game by assisting on a goal by defenseman Sean Walker. While perhaps not the dominant scorer he once was, Hall demonstrated his significant playmaking and offensive impact on Monday.
2. Evander Kane | Edmonton Oilers
Despite missing the entire regular season due to injuries, Evander Kane is proving to be a major factor for the Oilers when it matters most. In Monday`s win, Kane recorded a goal and an assist, alongside delivering six hits.
Early in the first period, Kane helped create Adam Henrique`s goal by battling for the puck in front, earning a secondary assist. In the second period, Kane scored on an odd-man rush; after receiving a pass from Connor McDavid, he drove towards the net and beat Golden Knights goalie Adin Hill with a snap shot. Beyond his offensive contributions in Game 4, Kane`s physical presence was notable, disrupting the Golden Knights and delivering a classic strong performance.
1. Adam Henrique | Edmonton Oilers
Edmonton`s team depth was evident as center Adam Henrique stepped up offensively on Monday. Henrique scored the first two goals for the Oilers, setting the tone for their significant Game 4 victory.
This was Henrique`s first two-goal playoff game since a Game 7 against the Florida Panthers in the 2012 first round. He made an immediate impact on Monday, scoring just 1:27 into Game 4 after Connor Brown forced a turnover behind the net and fed him for a one-timer. His second goal came during a scramble in front, initiated by Kane winning the puck battle. Henrique`s line was highly productive, contributing a total of three goals and two assists. His extensive playoff experience was clear, and his presence is a significant asset as the Oilers pursue a return to the Stanley Cup Final.
