Full Breakdown
Golden Knights Overtime Victory Over Ducks Gives Vegas 3-2 Series Lead
5/13/2026, 12:45:48 PM
Game 5 Recap: Overtime Winner and Key Moments
Anaheim opened scoring when rookie Beckett Sennecke converted a power-play rebound 7:24 into the first period, following a five-minute major for interference and a game misconduct issued to Vegas defenseman Brayden McNabb after his hit on Ducks center Ryan Poehling. Pavel Dorofeyev tied the game on the power play shortly thereafter. Tomas Hertl gave the Golden Knights a 2-1 lead at 4:48 of the third period. Olen Zellweger scored his first playoff goal for Anaheim with 3:05 left, forcing overtime. After a brief injury scare from a slapshot to his right knee, Dorofeyev returned and scored the overtime winner at 4:10, completing a two-goal night.
Key Performers and Statistics
- Pavel Dorofeyev: 2 goals (including OT), 1 power-play goal.
- Tomas Hertl: 1 goal, 1 assist; ended a 29-game goal drought.
- Jack Eichel: 2 assists, primary on the overtime winner.
- Carter Hart (VGK): 34 saves on 36 shots.
- Lukas Dostal (ANA): 29 saves.
- Beckett Sennecke: 1 power-play goal, fourth consecutive game with a goal.
- Olen Zellweger: 1 goal, first career playoff goal.
- Brayden McNabb: ejected after major penalty; Anaheim lost a first-pair defenseman.
Official Statements & Responses
Golden Knights defenseman Rasmus Andersson affirmed confidence in Hart’s play, noting his ability to rebound after earlier setbacks. Coach John Tortorella declined to judge the major-penalty call but questioned why a hit on Vegas defenseman Dylan Coghlan was not penalized. Forward Brett Howden emphasized the need for discipline to avoid giving Anaheim additional power-play chances. Ducks coach Joel Quenneville highlighted his team’s excitement and focus on simple, hard-working play at home.
Criticism & Opposition
The ejection of McNabb sparked debate over consistency in officiating. Tortorella expressed frustration with the perceived disparity in penalty assessments. Anaheim’s perspective, expressed through player comments, underscored the impact of losing Poehling to an upper-body injury after the hit.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I just blocked a shot,” — Pavel Dorofeyev, Golden Knights forward
- “We have all the faith in the world in Carter,” — Rasmus Andersson, Golden Knights defenseman
- “I just don’t get it,” — John Tortorella, Golden Knights head coach
- “I know this group’s going to bounce back,” — Olen Zellweger, Ducks defenseman
- “We’ve obviously got to stay more disciplined, not wanting to give them momentum off that or give them opportunities on the power play,” — Brett Howden, Golden Knights forward
Implications for the Series
The overtime win puts Vegas ahead 3-2, one victory away from the Western Conference final—a milestone not reached since the 2023 Stanley Cup championship. Anaheim faces elimination and must win Game 6 to force a decisive Game 7.
What’s Next
Game 6 is scheduled for Thursday at the Honda Center in Anaheim, with a 6:30 p.m. local start time and national broadcast on TNT.
