Oilers outlast Ducks in game 1 playoff opener

Kasperi Kapanen scored twice, including the game-winner with 1:54 left in the third period, as the Edmonton Oilers rallied for a 4-3 victory over the Anaheim Ducks in the opener of their first-round Stanley Cup playoff series on April 21, 2026.[1][2] Jason Dickinson also notched a pair of goals for Edmonton, who trailed 3-2 heading into the final frame at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta. Star forward Leon Draisaitl made his long-awaited return from injury, chipping in two assists alongside defenseman Jake Walman.[3]

The win gives the Oilers a 1-0 series lead against a Ducks team making their first playoff appearance since 2018.[4] Troy Terry paced Anaheim with two goals and an assist, while Leo Carlsson added a goal. Goalie Lukas Dostal made 30 saves in a strong effort, but Connor Ingram’s 25 saves in his playoff debut, including a clutch stop late, secured the victory for Edmonton.[2]

Kapanen and Dickinson lead Oilers’ comeback charge

Kasperi Kapanen emerged as the hero of the night, battling for a rebound to score his first goal early and then delivering the dagger late in the third.[5][6] His second tally came off a scramble in front, pushing Edmonton ahead for good after the Ducks had seized a 3-2 lead midway through the game. Kapanen’s seven shots and physical play set the tone for the Oilers’ bottom-six contributors stepping up in a high-stakes opener.

Jason Dickinson wasted no time, opening the scoring on a breakaway and adding another to tie things up.[7] Returning to the lineup himself, Dickinson’s goals bookended the first period, giving Edmonton a brief 2-0 edge. His persistence around the net forced turnovers and created chaos for Dostal, highlighting the Oilers’ depth beyond their star players.

The duo’s four combined goals underscored Edmonton’s resilience after blowing an early lead. They outshot Anaheim in key moments, capitalizing on rebounds and odd-man rushes. This performance silenced doubts about the Oilers’ scoring without full health across the roster.

Draisaitl’s assists on both late markers were pivotal, showcasing his vision even if not fully sharp post-injury. Walman’s two helpers from the blue line added defensive stability. Together, these efforts flipped a deficit into a statement win.[8]

The Oilers’ power play went 0-for-2, but their even-strength play dominated late. Kapanen’s game-winner came at five-on-five, proving timely execution over special teams reliance. Dickinson’s breakaway goal early set an aggressive tone that carried through.

Draisaitl shakes off rust in playoff return

Leon Draisaitl missed the final 14 regular-season games with a lower-body injury but looked serviceable in his comeback.[9] “I felt OK. Certainly going to take a couple games to really be myself, and really trust myself again,” Draisaitl said post-game. “But for a start, I thought it was OK.” His two assists directly fueled the comeback, assisting on Dickinson’s and Kapanen’s goals.

Draisaitl’s presence immediately elevated Edmonton’s offense, drawing coverage and creating space. Though not at peak speed, his playmaking remained elite, threading passes through tight Ducks defense. Walman complemented him with two assists, forming a potent top-pair dynamic.

The Oilers are chasing a third straight Stanley Cup Final appearance, having fallen to the Florida Panthers the past two years—Panthers who sat out playoffs this season. Draisaitl’s return is crucial for that quest, injecting star power into a gritty win. His post-game candor about needing time bodes well for ramp-up.

Edmonton’s third period surge, outshooting Anaheim 14-7, reflected Draisaitl’s influence. He logged heavy minutes, including key defensive-zone draws. This game served as a baseline; expect sharper play as the series progresses.

Ingram praised the atmosphere: “It’s loud in there. After the anthem, one thing I always do is smile and take it all in. That was one today where I was like, ‘this is cool.’” Draisaitl’s leadership will guide young netminders like Ingram through playoff intensity.

Ducks impress in playoff debut despite defeat

Anaheim’s first playoff game since 2018 showed promise, with Troy Terry’s two goals and assist leading the charge.[10] Leo Carlsson’s tally rounded out their scoring, erasing a 2-0 deficit to lead 3-2. The Ducks controlled much of the middle frame, winning puck battles and generating quality chances against a rusty Oilers squad.

Lukas Dostal stood tall with 30 saves, many high-danger stops keeping Anaheim alive longer than expected. His poise in net belied the Ducks’ inexperience, robbing Edmonton on multiple occasions. Terry’s multi-point night highlighted emerging talent ready for postseason scrutiny.

The Ducks won the shot battle early and held firm until the third-period collapse. Their forecheck disrupted Oilers entries, leading to turnovers that fueled the lead. Carlsson’s goal, a slick deflection, exemplified their skill.

Despite the loss, Anaheim avoided a blowout, pushing a Cup contender to the brink. Coach comments likely praised the effort, setting up a bounce-back in Game 2. Dostal’s performance positions them well for home ice potential later.[8]

Key moments and statistical breakdown

• First period: Dickinson breakaway (1-0), Kapanen rebound (2-0 Oilers).[11]
• Second period: Ducks storm back—Terry, Carlsson, Terry for 3-2 lead.
• Third period: Dickinson ties it, Kapanen wins it with 1:54 left.
• Shots: Oilers 34-28 overall; Ducks edged first two periods.
• Power plays: Edmonton 0/2, Anaheim 1/3.

Ingram’s final-minute pad save on Granlund preserved the win, his first playoff victory.[6] Edmonton’s faceoff win percentage hovered around 52%, crucial in late draws. Ducks blocked 18 shots, gritty defense shining.

For full box score details, check the ESPN game summary.[1]

Draisaitl noted the team’s edge: “Obviously, this wasn’t our best, wasn’t our sharpest. But certainly, we’ll chip away at it, and be better next game.”

Game 2 looms Wednesday at Rogers Place, where Edmonton aims to build momentum. Anaheim must tighten defensively to even the series. With Draisaitl rounding into form, the Oilers hold the advantage, but Ducks’ resilience signals a battle ahead. This opener sets up a compelling Pacific Division clash—what it means for the bracket hinges on Edmonton’s polish and Anaheim’s response.