One Bad Decision: How the Oilers' Coach Almost Blew Game One

 

Game One of the Stanley Cup Final had everything: grit, goals, and overtime drama. But lost in the excitement of the Edmonton Oilers' thrilling 4–3 win over the Florida Panthers is a decision that could’ve shifted the entire game — and possibly the series.

With the Oilers leading 1–0 in the first period, Panthers forward Sam Bennett scored a controversial goal to tie the game 1–1. Edmonton head coach Kris Knoblauch immediately issued a coach’s challenge for goaltender interference. And while the interference was debatable, the bigger problem wasn’t the call itself — it was the timing.

Challenging in the first period, when you’re still leading or tied, is rarely worth the risk.

The challenge was unsuccessful. As per NHL rules, Edmonton was penalized for delay of game — handing the Panthers a power play they quickly converted into a 2–1 lead.

Just like that, the Oilers' one-goal lead turned into a one-goal deficit in the blink of an eye — not because of poor defense, but because of a coaching miscalculation.

It’s important to note that Knoblauch had a case. Bennett was in the crease, and contact with Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner could be argued. But early in a game — especially one you’re leading — coaches typically save their challenge for a moment where momentum must be stopped.

Instead, the Oilers handed Florida momentum on a silver platter. The Panthers carried the energy through the period and made Edmonton play catch-up.

Luckily for the Oilers, this story didn’t end in regret. Edmonton showed resilience, battled back, and eventually won in overtime. But the challenge — and its consequences — can’t be ignored. Had things gone differently, it could’ve been the turning point in a painful loss.

Coaches talk often about “feel” — knowing when to press the button and when to hold it. In this case, Knoblauch jumped early, and nearly paid for it.

In playoff hockey, the margins are razor-thin. While the Oilers came out on top in Game One, this moment should serve as a reminder: timing can be the difference between taking control and giving it away.