The 2025 NHL playoffs continue to provide exciting action night after night. Thursday`s games saw several key players step up with crucial performances, notably led by Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel.
Facing the risk of falling behind 2-0 in their series heading to Carolina, the Washington Capitals received a significant boost from Tom Wilson, who helped them tie the series. Wilson not only bothered the Hurricanes with his physical play but also displayed skill in setting up John Carlson`s game-winning goal.
In the later matchup, Jack Eichel of the Golden Knights was constantly involved, seemingly always possessing the puck. The star forward showcased excellent vision, assisting on all three of his team`s initial goals. On two power-play opportunities, Eichel expertly analyzed and exploited the Oilers` penalty kill, directly contributing to two goals scored by Victor Olofsson.
Despite Eichel`s impressive performance, he was ultimately surpassed by arguably the world`s best player. While Eichel helped the Golden Knights mount a third-period rally to force overtime, it was Connor McDavid who delivered the decisive play with the game hanging in the balance.
Following another thrilling night of playoff hockey, we highlight the standout performances by naming the 3 Stars of the Night.
3. Jack Eichel | C | Golden Knights
In Game 2, Eichel was arguably the most prominent player, consistently generating scoring opportunities whenever he controlled the puck. He effectively compensated for some defensive and goaltending weaknesses from Vegas that night. His exceptional play provided the Golden Knights with a chance, even if the overall team performance wasn`t perfect.
Eichel achieved a career-best 66 assists during the regular season, and this enhanced playmaking skill has seamlessly carried over to the playoffs. He was directly involved in Vegas` first three goals, earning an assist on each. His most impressive pass came during a third-period power play; Eichel patiently waited for an opening before delivering a precise cross-ice feed to Victor Olofsson for a one-time goal.
2. Tom Wilson | RW | Capitals
Tom Wilson perfectly embodies the type of player you dislike when he`s an opponent but appreciate when he`s on your side. This was evident in Game 2, where he actively worked to frustrate the Hurricanes while also contributing offensively.
As expected, Wilson brought significant physicality to the game, but his contributions weren`t limited to hits. The large forward demonstrated finesse on the Capitals` winning goal. Positioned in the power-play bumper, Wilson showed great awareness, spotting a trailing John Carlson on the weak side for a simple tap-in. He rounded out his strong performance by scoring the empty-net goal, securing the victory for Washington.
1. Connor McDavid | C | Oilers
For approximately 75 minutes, the Golden Knights did an commendable job of limiting Connor McDavid`s impact. However, containing a player of his caliber is a challenging task that rarely lasts. In the crucial moment, when the game was on the line and the pressure was highest, McDavid executed the play of the night, giving Edmonton a 2-0 series advantage.
With about five minutes remaining in overtime, McDavid gained possession of the puck in the neutral zone and accelerated rapidly. Skating towards the Vegas blue line, McDavid deked past Eichel with exceptional stick-handling. This maneuver created a 2-on-1 opportunity with his linemate, Leon Draisaitl, and McDavid delivered a pass to set up his fellow superstar for an easy game-winning goal into an open net. This play marked McDavid`s 14th playoff point, placing him second in league scoring.
