Edmonton got a cannon start to the game and were up 3–0 just over eight minutes in. Mattias Janmark, set up by Victor Arvidsson, scored 2–0 seven minutes into the first period.
Dallas reduced the lead twice and were pushing for a tie at the end of the second period, but the puck literally bounced Edmonton's way. Mattias Ekholm, who had been out since April 11 due to injury, blocked Dallas defenseman Thomas Harley's shot in front of his own goal – and saw the puck bounce out over the ice and release Connor McDavid, who scored 4–2.
Long-awaited comeback
I just tried to block the shot from Harley. The puck took on my one skate blade and bounced out into the neutral zone. There, I had a bit of luck and it created an offensive scoring chance, which McDavid utilized, says Ekholm to Expressen.
Ekholm's comeback could not have come at a better time. Initially, the news was that he would miss the entire playoffs, but after training with the team since May 19, he felt ready for tonight's decisive game.
A further Dallas reduction right at the start of the third period did not help. Edmonton won 6–3, took home the semifinal series 4–1, and gets a chance for revenge against reigning champions Florida.
"Two best teams"
Last year, Edmonton fell in a final that went all the way to seven matches.
It feels like it's the two best teams in the NHL that meet, says Ekholm to Aftonbladet.
Of course, we're aiming for revenge. It's going to be a battle, but it feels like we're well-prepared.
The first final match is played on the night of Thursday next week in Edmonton.
Facts: This is how the Stanley Cup final is played
TT
Thursday, June 5, 02.00: Edmonton–Florida. Saturday, June 7, 02.00: Edmonton–Florida. Tuesday, June 10, 02.00: Florida–Edmonton. Friday, June 13, 02.00: Florida–Edmonton. If Sunday, June 15, 02.00: Edmonton–Florida. If Wednesday, June 18, 02.00: Florida–Edmonton. If Saturday, June 21, 02.00: Edmonton–Florida.
