Controversial OT Goal Lifts Ducks to 3-1 Series Lead Over Oilers
Written By Gina Anton
The Anaheim Ducks are one win away from advancing in the Western Conference First Round, but their 4-3 overtime victory against the Edmonton Oilers in Game 4 on Sunday night will be remembered as much for controversy as for the result.
The Ducks now hold a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series after forward Troy Terry scored the game-winning goal 2:29 into overtime. The play was immediately reviewed for a potential distinct kicking motion, but after a lengthy video review, officials determined there was no conclusive evidence to overturn the call on the ice, allowing the goal to stand. The ruling sparked an emotional response from the Oilers, who believed the puck was illegally directed into the net.
"I didn't get any communication," Oilers Head Coach Kris Knoblauch said. "I can't see it going in. I can't see the line. You can't see any space between the blueline, and you see a lot of similarity when you talk about offsides. There have been many times when I've seen it be offside and they don't have the absolute proof of it."
The game itself featured playoff-level intensity throughout. Anaheim opened the scoring in the first period, but Edmonton responded with two goals in the second to take a 2-1 lead. The Ducks tied the game late in the third period, continuing a trend that has defined the series: timely scoring under pressure.
Through four games, Anaheim has now outscored Edmonton 11-8 and has scored in three of its wins either in the third period or overtime. The Ducks have also converted on key chances at even strength while receiving steady goaltending in high-leverage moments.
Edmonton, meanwhile, generated 38 shots on goal in Game 4 compared to Anaheim’s 27 and held an edge in offensive zone time. Despite that, the Oilers have struggled to close games, particularly late, where Anaheim has consistently capitalized.
For the Ducks, the victory continues a surprising postseason surge. Entering the playoffs as underdogs, they have now recorded multiple comeback wins and have controlled the series despite being outshot in two of their three victories.
“We’re just playing so connected right now, and we’re doing a good job of doing the right things,” said Anaheim defenseman Jackson LaCombe. “We’re all just feeling great, and I think we’re all competing to the best of our ability, and it’s just paying off right now.”
The Oilers now face elimination heading into Game 5, needing to win three straight to keep their Stanley Cup hopes alive. For a team built around high-powered offense, finishing chances and maintaining composure in critical moments will be essential.
Anaheim, meanwhile, will look to close out the series and avoid giving Edmonton any opportunity to build momentum.
No matter how the series unfolds, Game 4’s overtime decision and the debate surrounding it will remain one of the defining moments of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
