In a thrilling night of playoff hockey, two NHL stars, Leon Draisaitl of the Edmonton Oilers and Joe Pavelski of the Dallas Stars, both scored four goals in their respective playoff losses. This feat is a rare occurrence in the NHL, and it highlights the incredible talent and skill of these two players.
Draisaitl, who was named the NHL’s most valuable player for the 2019-2020 season, scored all four of his goals in the third period of the Oilers’ game against the Chicago Blackhawks. Despite his impressive performance, the Oilers were unable to overcome a three-goal deficit and lost the game 6-4. Draisaitl’s four-goal performance was the first by an Oilers player in a playoff game since Wayne Gretzky accomplished the feat in 1985.
Pavelski, on the other hand, scored his four goals in a losing effort against the Calgary Flames. The Stars captain scored all four goals in the first two periods of the game, but the Flames were able to mount a comeback and win the game 6-4. Pavelski’s four-goal performance was the first by a Stars player in a playoff game since Mike Modano accomplished the feat in 1999.
While both Draisaitl and Pavelski’s performances were impressive, they were unable to lead their teams to victory. However, their performances will go down in NHL history as rare and remarkable feats. Only six other players in NHL history have scored four goals in a playoff game and lost, including Mario Lemieux, Jari Kurri, and Maurice Richard.
Draisaitl and Pavelski’s performances also highlight the importance of individual efforts in playoff hockey. While hockey is a team sport, individual performances can often make all the difference in a game. Both players were able to elevate their games to an exceptional level, but unfortunately, their efforts were not enough to secure a win for their teams.
As the NHL playoffs continue, it will be interesting to see if any other players can join the rare group of those who have scored four goals in a playoff game and lost. Regardless, Draisaitl and Pavelski’s performances will be remembered as remarkable displays of skill and talent in the world of hockey.
