In a game that had just about everything-from a hat trick that wasn’t, to a buzzer-beating equalizer, to a dramatic overtime winner-Jack Eichel put the final stamp on a wild night in Vegas. Eichel scored at 2:44 of overtime to lift the Golden Knights to a thrilling 6-5 comeback win over the Toronto Maple Leafs, extending Vegas' win streak to six games.
Let’s unpack this one, because it was a rollercoaster from the jump.
Eichel Delivers in Crunch Time
Eichel was the engine all night for the Golden Knights, finishing with four points, including the primary assist on the game-tying goal and, of course, the game-winner. With Vegas trailing late, he found Tomas Hertl with just seven seconds left in regulation on a 6-on-5 situation. Hertl buried it, sending the home crowd into a frenzy and forcing overtime.
Then, in the extra frame, Eichel capped the comeback with a silky finish that sealed the deal. These are the kinds of moments that define stars-and Eichel delivered.
Marner Faces Old Team, Boos and All
All eyes were on Mitch Marner, who faced the Maple Leafs for the first time since being traded last summer. The Toronto native, who had spent his entire career with the Leafs since 2016, was met with a chorus of boos from the many Leafs fans in attendance-starting with pregame introductions and echoing throughout the night.
Marner responded with two assists, playing a key role in Vegas’ offensive explosion. He’ll get a chance to face his former team again in Toronto on Jan. 23, which should be appointment viewing.
Dorofeyev’s Almost Hat Trick
Pavel Dorofeyev was on the brink of a milestone night, scoring two power-play goals and seemingly notching a third late in the third period to tie the game. Fans showered the ice with hats-but hold the celebration.
Toronto challenged the play, and after review, the goal was wiped off due to an offside entry. No hat trick, but a huge night nonetheless for Dorofeyev, who continues to carve out a role as a reliable scoring option on the man advantage.
Mark Stone Stays Hot
Mark Stone is on one of those streaks where everything he touches turns to offense. With a goal and two assists, Stone extended his point streak to 10 games-racking up nine goals and eight assists over that stretch. He’s been the heartbeat of this Vegas team during their current surge, and his chemistry with Eichel and company is clicking at just the right time.
Hill Returns, Battles Through Early Storm
Adin Hill made his return to the crease after missing nearly three months with a lower-body injury suffered back in October. Toronto didn’t exactly ease him back in-scoring three goals in the first 9:57 to jump out to a 3-1 lead-but Hill settled in and made key saves down the stretch to keep Vegas within striking distance. He finished with 23 saves and, more importantly, looked comfortable as the game wore on.
Leafs’ Firepower Shows Up-But Can’t Close
Toronto came out flying, with William Nylander and John Tavares each notching a goal and an assist. Auston Matthews, Morgan Rielly, and Scott Laughton also found the back of the net, and Matias Maccelli and Matthew Knies chipped in two assists apiece. But the Leafs couldn’t hold multiple leads, including a two-goal cushion in the second period.
Nylander, who leads the team with 48 points, left the game in the first period with a lower-body injury-something to monitor moving forward.
Joseph Woll made 28 saves in goal for Toronto, but Vegas’ relentless push eventually broke through.
A Milestone for Robertson
Nicholas Robertson quietly hit a personal milestone, skating in his 200th career NHL game. While he didn’t hit the scoresheet, it’s a notable mark for a player who’s battled through injuries and inconsistency to carve out a role in Toronto’s lineup.
What’s Next
Toronto heads to Winnipeg for a Saturday night tilt with the Jets, looking to regroup after letting one slip away in Vegas. The Golden Knights, meanwhile, stay home to host the Nashville Predators as they aim to keep their win streak alive.
If Thursday night was any indication, Vegas is heating up-and doing it in dramatic fashion.