The Edmonton Oilers edged out the Florida Panthers in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final, grabbing an early series lead. Despite going down 3-1 in the game, Edmonton continued to fight back and eventually tied the game on a goal from defenseman Mattias Ekholm.

Ekholm has been great for the Oilers since he returned from injury in Game 5 of the Western Conference Final against the Dallas Stars. But his performance in Game 1 against Florida came at the perfect time.

Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch discussed the impact of his defender and what he has meant to the team.

"We're very fortunate that we were playing long enough that he had the opportunity to come back," Knoblauch said . "Obviously when he's healthy, we welcome him with open arms."

The teammates of Ekholm also credited him for g

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