The 2025 NHL playoffs continue to deliver exciting action every night. Thursday saw several key players step up with crucial performances, notably Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel leading the charge.
Facing a potential 2-0 series deficit heading to Carolina, Tom Wilson raised his game for the Washington Capitals, helping them tie the series. Beyond his typical physical play against the Hurricanes, Wilson displayed skill, assisting on John Carlson`s game-winning goal.
In the later matchup, Jack Eichel of the Golden Knights constantly controlled the puck and demonstrated exceptional vision. He assisted his team`s first three goals. On two power plays, Eichel expertly read and exploited the Oilers` penalty kill, setting up Victor Olofsson for two goals.
While Eichel was outstanding, his performance was arguably surpassed by the world`s top player. Eichel helped the Golden Knights rally in the third period to force overtime, but Connor McDavid delivered the game`s most significant moment when it mattered most.
Following another thrilling night of playoff hockey, here are the top three performances recognized as the 3 Stars of the Night.
3. Jack Eichel | C | Golden Knights
Eichel was arguably the most visible player in Game 2, generating scoring opportunities consistently. Despite some defensive and goaltending issues for Vegas, Eichel`s stellar play kept them competitive. His skill gave the Golden Knights a chance, even if other players didn`t perform as well.
Eichel achieved a career-best 66 assists in the regular season, and this enhanced playmaking has seamlessly carried over to the playoffs. He assisted on all three of Vegas`s initial goals. His most impressive assist came on a third-period power play, where Eichel spotted a small opening and delivered a flawless cross-ice pass to Victor Olofsson for a one-timer goal.
2. Tom Wilson | RW | Capitals
Tom Wilson embodies the type of player fans dislike when he`s an opponent but appreciate when he`s on their team. This dynamic was evident in Game 2, where he successfully antagonized the Hurricanes while also contributing offensively.
Typical of his style, Wilson played a physical game, but his influence extended further. The large forward displayed skill on the Capitals` winning goal. Positioned in the power play bumper spot, Wilson made a perceptive pass to a joining John Carlson on the weak side for a simple tap-in. He sealed Washington`s victory by scoring the empty-net goal.
1. Connor McDavid | C | Oilers
For about 75 minutes, the Golden Knights managed to limit Connor McDavid`s impact remarkably well. However, this containment couldn`t last. When the game was on the line, under the highest pressure, McDavid executed the play of the game, securing a 2-0 series lead for Edmonton.
Approximately five minutes into overtime, McDavid gained possession in the neutral zone and accelerated rapidly. Skating towards the Vegas zone, he skillfully deked past Eichel with impressive stick-handling, creating a 2-on-1 chance with Leon Draisaitl. McDavid then passed to his fellow star, who had an open net for the winning goal. This play marked McDavid`s 14th playoff point, placing him second in the league.
