Mitch Marner scored a natural hat trick in the second period on Saturday night. He helped Vegas build a four-goal lead over the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final.
What happened?
Vegas coach John Tortorella said the game changed so much that no lead is safe. He experienced a lot of games and playoffs but hasn't seen one like this.
Why it matters for Mitch Marner
Marner's monumental night almost went to waste. But Shea Theodore's goal in the second overtime gave Vegas a 2-1 series lead.
Marner's first goal came when he gathered a loose puck near the boards. He fired a backhander into the crease, where Carolina defenseman Sean Walker accidentally deflected the puck past Frederik Andersen.
What comes next?
Marner had a chance for a fourth goal when he was awarded a penalty shot in the third period. But he was stymied by Brandon Bussi.
Marner also assisted on Tomas Hertl's goal. His four points are tied for the most in a single period since 1919.
The 29-year-old has 10 goals in 19 playoff games with the Golden Knights. He had 13 goals in 70 playoff games during his nine years with Toronto.
Marner's 28 points are the most by any player in NHL history in his first postseason with a new team. He had a natural hat trick in 6:10, the fastest in Stanley Cup history.
Vegas goalie Carter Hart stopped six shots and Carolina's Brandon Bussi made seven saves in the first overtime. Then, it was Shea Theodore playing the role of hero 5:38 into the second overtime.
Theodore's goal prevented Marner's monumental night from going to waste. Marner was happy with how his group responded and stayed calm in the moment.
The game was Carolina's seventh overtime game of the playoffs and Vegas' fifth trip to extra time. Tomas Hertl broke a scoreless tie midway through the second period.
Marner's natural hat trick was the highlight of the game. He scored his first goal, then added two more in less than four minutes.
Marner's performance was impressive. He had four points in the second period and helped Vegas build a four-goal lead.
The Golden Knights won the game 5-4 in double overtime. Marner's natural hat trick was a key factor in their victory.
Marner was awarded a penalty shot in the third period. But he was unable to score, as Bussi made the save.
The Golden Knights are now up 2-1 in the series. They will look to build on their momentum in the next game.
Marner's natural hat trick was a historic achievement. It was the fastest in Stanley Cup history, and it helped the Golden Knights win a crucial game.
The Golden Knights' victory was a testament to their skill and determination. They were able to come back from a tough third period and win the game in overtime.
Marner's performance was a key factor in their victory. He scored a natural hat trick and had four points in the second period.
The Golden Knights will look to build on their momentum in the next game. They will face the Carolina Hurricanes again, and they will be looking to take a 3-1 lead in the series.