Johnston’s Record-Tying Power-Play Goal Fuels Team Victory
A dominant performance on special teams and key contributions from multiple players propelled the team to a hard-fought win, highlighted by a historic power-play goal. The team showcased resilience and offensive firepower in a contest marked by close scoring and a crucial video review.
Power-Play Prowess
The team extended their lead to 2-0 at 7:42 of the game when Johnston capitalized on a power-play opportunity. He skillfully redirected a one-timer from Mikko Rantanen from the blue line, securing his 18th power-play goal of the season. This achievement ties him with Mike Modano for the most power-play goals in a single season in team history – a testament to the team’s effective power-play unit.
“Yeah it’s cool. I’m just trying to pitch in, however I can,” Johnston stated. “Power play, penalty kill, 5-on-5, kind of whatever that might be. So, yeah, it’s cool, but, I’m just trying to help the team win games.”
Yamamoto Sparks Offensive Push
Despite the early lead, the opposition responded, narrowing the deficit to 2-1 at 10:23. Yamamoto scored after a swift rush into the offensive zone by Peterka, who delivered a precise pass for a low wrist shot that eluded the opposing goaltender’s right skate. The goal was initially met with a challenge from the team for potential goaltender interference, but the call was upheld following a thorough video review. Notably, Peterka’s assist marked his 100th career point in the NHL.
Yamamoto expressed the confidence boost of re-entering the lineup, stating, “I think just getting back into the lineup, obviously, is a huge confidence (boost).” He further praised his linemates, JJ and Barrett Hayton, adding, “They’re amazing players too. They make plays with the best of them. They are very easy to read off and stuff like that. They were both fine to me.”
Duchene Extends Lead, Yamamoto Narrows Gap
The team regained a two-goal advantage at 16:37 when Duchene unleashed a snap shot from the high slot, which deflected off the opposing goaltender’s glove. Duchene attributed the success to strong teamwork, saying, “I think a lot of the plays so far have been great plays by linemates and teammates.” He added a philosophical perspective on the game’s ebbs and flows, “When it goes, it goes, and when it doesn’t, it doesn’t. It’s just hockey. You want to make the peaks long and the valleys short. So, hopefully this is a long peak for me and keep it going through the break.”
The opposition refused to concede, with Yamamoto bringing the score to 3-2 at 6:41 of the third period. His shot from the right circle proved difficult to handle, fluttering past the goaltender on the glove side.
The team demonstrated a blend of individual brilliance and collective effort, ultimately securing a victory through strategic play and unwavering determination.
