Hockey

So far early in these NHL playoffs, 45 times a team has skated onto the ice for the third period with a lead. Nearly a third of those times that team lost the game.

TORONTO — Much of the debate in the aftermath of Anthony Stolarz's departure from the Maple Leafs' series opener against Florida centred around whether Panthers forward Sam Bennett should have been disciplined for elbowing the Toronto goaltender.

TORONTO — Joseph Woll is heading back under the post-season spotlight. It's a place the Maple Leafs goaltender has thrived in the past.

LAS VEGAS — The Edmonton Oilers winning the first game of a playoff series was rare. Coming from behind to do it was not.

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — Former NHL forward Eric Staal is rejoining the Buffalo Sabres , this time in a front-office role as special assistant to general manager Kevyn Adams, the team announced Wednesday.

The NHL team in Salt Lake City is now known as the Utah Mammoth. Owners Ryan and Ashley Smith unveiled the franchise’s permanent name Thursday morning after more than a year of fan input and voting.

Edmonton Oilers (48-29-5, in the Pacific Division) vs. Vegas Golden Knights (50-22-10, in the Pacific Division) Paradise, Nevada; Thursday, 9:30 p.m. EDT BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Golden Knights -132, Oilers +112; over/under is 6.

Carolina Hurricanes (47-30-5, in the Metropolitan Division) vs. Washington Capitals (51-22-9, in the Metropolitan Division) Washington; Thursday, 7 p.m. EDT BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Hurricanes -135, Capitals +114; over/under is 5.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — One thing is becoming clear during this year's NHL playoffs: Don't count out the Edmonton Oilers. They rallied from a 2-0 series deficit to oust Los Angeles in six games in the first round.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — One thing is becoming clear during this year's NHL playoffs: Don't count out the Edmonton Oilers. They rallied from a 2-0 series deficit to oust Los Angeles in six games in the first round.