Unreal Game 7 Drama Sets Stage for NHL Second Round and Draft Lottery
The NHL delivered one of its most dramatic playoff weekends in recent memory. From historic comebacks to sudden death heroics, here’s everything you need to know this morning in the hockey world.
Cole Perfetti’s Game 7 Miracle
The Winnipeg Jets pulled off a miracle in Game 7. Cole Perfetti scored with just three seconds left in regulation — the latest game-tying goal in a Game 7 in NHL history. Then, Adam Lowry buried the winner in double overtime to send the Jets past the St. Louis Blues.
The Jets’ comeback etched their name into NHL lore. Only four other teams have erased multi-goal deficits in the third period of a Game 7 and gone on to win. Even more incredible? The Dallas Stars did the same thing just two nights earlier.
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Stars, Jets Headline Second Round
The Stars rallied back from a late two-goal hole to stun the Colorado Avalanche in their own Game 7. Now, Dallas and Winnipeg face each other in the second round, making it a battle between two of the most resilient squads in recent memory.
According to NHL.com, only five teams in NHL history have come back from multi-goal third-period deficits in Game 7 — and now two of them are meeting head-to-head. It’s playoff cinema at its finest.
Panthers vs Maple Leafs: Round 2 Begins Tonight
The second round officially kicks off tonight as the Florida Panthers host the Toronto Maple Leafs. Both teams are loaded with offensive firepower and playoff-tested veterans. Expect physical play, elite goaltending, and high drama from the opening puck drop.
Game 1 is set for 7:30 PM ET on ESPN.
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NHL Draft Lottery Goes Live In-Studio
Also tonight: the 2025 NHL Draft Lottery will take place at 7 PM ET. This year marks the first time in 30 years that the lottery drawing will be held live in-studio and aired in real time. The stakes are high for teams like the Sharks, Ducks, and Canadiens, all hoping to land the top pick.
Fans can tune in via ESPN and the NHL Network for full coverage.
