"Nikolaj Ehlers scored 25 seconds into the first period, the third-fastest goal in final history and the fastest in 50 years."
Ehlers Strikes Early, But Golden Knights Rally for 4-3 Win
During Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final on Tuesday at Lenovo Center, Carolina Hurricanes forward Nikolaj Ehlers made history. He scored 25 seconds into the first period, the third-fastest goal in final history and the fastest in 50 years.
Ehlers added another goal in the first period, giving Carolina an early 2-0 lead.
Vegas Strikes Back with Three Unanswered
The Vegas Golden Knights responded with three consecutive goals:
- Keegan Kolesar deflected a puck to make it 2-1.
- Ivan Barbashev scored 30 seconds into the second period to tie the game.
- William Karlsson gave Vegas a 3-2 lead approximately four minutes later.
Staal Ties It, But Howden Tips the Scales
Carolina captain Jordan Staal tied the game 3-3 in the second period on a shot assisted by defenseman K'Andre Miller. Brett Howden tipped in a pass from Shea Theodore early in the third period, giving Vegas a 4-3 lead.
Key Player Notes
- Ehlers, a free agent signing from the Winnipeg Jets in the offseason, scored twice on Vegas goaltender Carter Hart.
- Frederik Andersen was Carolina's goaltender.
Bettman Praises Dundon, Approves Renovations
Before the game, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon for his work with the franchise since purchasing a majority stake in 2018, noting the team's consistent playoff appearances and community integration.
Bettman also mentioned the approved $300 million renovation project at Lenovo Center. Dundon recently led a group purchasing the NBA's Portland Trail Blazers.
Notable attendees included North Carolina football coach Bill Belichick and Duke men's basketball coach Jon Scheyer.