Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid scored a goal in each period of Saturday’s game 5-2 win over the Dallas Stars for his first NHL hat trick.
None of McDavid’s goals could really be called highlights. The 19-year-old captain did everything within his capacity to create opportunities, but he also needed a little bit of luck. His first goal required an opponent’s assistance; McDavid’s shot deflected into the net off the stick of Stars defenseman John Klingberg, who couldn’t collect the puck in time.
McDavid’s second and third goals were solid taps on fortunate rebounds. In the second period, he caught a blocked shot to keep the Oilers in their offensive zone, then skated to the goal to find a perfect angle between the net and Stars goalie Kari Lehtonen. His final goal of the game started as a possible trademark McDavid breakaway that would end with an embarrassed goaltender, but the Oiler left the puck behind. Teammate Jesse Puljujarvi took a slapshot, but it was blocked and bounced McDavid’s way. Once again, he found open net and scored.
McDavid hadn’t scored a goal in 10 games before his hat trick. He now has eight goals on the season.