The Edmonton Oilers fell 4-3 to the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 3 — a game that ended in the most painful way imaginable. With the clock ticking down and overtime looking certain, the Oilers had a brief mental lapse. Vegas pounced. Reilly Smith’s goal with 0.7 seconds left didn’t just steal the game — it ripped the air out of Rogers Place and left a team, and its fans, stunned.
Now that the dust has settled and the emotion cools, this loss forces a serious question: how do the Oilers respond?
They Let It Slip Away — Again
The Oilers were up 2-0 midway through the first period. Corey Perry, a playoff warrior, had both goals and looked like he was about to will this team to another win. But Vegas never flinched. They stormed back with two quick goals of their own, and suddenly the lead — and the momentum — evaporated.
This wasn’t a one-off. The Oilers have now allowed multi-goal comebacks multiple times in this postseason. Whether it’s defensive lapses, miscommunication, or getting too comfortable too early, this pattern is a red flag. In the playoffs, no lead is safe unless you're playing smart, composed hockey from start to finish.
McDavid and Perry Shine, But Support is Lacking
Connor McDavid continues to rise to the moment. His third-period goal tied the game 3-3 and gave the Oilers a shot at redemption. Perry's performance reminded everyone why the Oilers brought him in. But the lack of depth scoring and secondary push was glaring again.
Leon Draisaitl picked up two assists, but beyond that, there was little contribution from the bottom six or blue line in terms of offense. For this team to go deep, they’ll need more than just the stars — they’ll need the full roster pulling their weight.
Focus Must Last the Full 60
What happened in the final second wasn’t just a bad bounce. It was a breakdown in situational awareness. The Oilers failed to collapse down low and take care of the most dangerous area on the ice with the game on the line. It’s a mistake that simply can’t happen at this level — and especially not in the final second of a tied playoff game.
Looking Ahead
Despite the gut-punch, the Oilers still lead the series 2-1. But the nature of this loss makes Game 4 feel massive. Not just because it swings the series, but because it will test the team’s resolve. Can they lock in for a full 60 minutes? Can they get more from their depth? And most importantly, can they shake off a heartbreaking loss and get back to playing their game?
We'll find out soon. And they’ll need to — because Vegas surely will.