Matias Maccelli scored early in overtime, securing a 3-2 victory for the Arizona Coyotes against the Edmonton Oilers on Friday night, just as news broke about the Coyotes’ expected relocation to Utah.
Josh Doan contributed with a goal and an assist, while Logan Cooley also scored, leading the Coyotes to their fourth win in five games. Karel Vejmelka made 37 saves to help seal the win.
Coyotes coach Andre Tourigny praised his team’s solid performance, highlighting their resilience despite the off-ice distractions. He also commended their focus and structure throughout the game.
Meanwhile, the Oilers, playing without star player Connor McDavid due to a lower-body injury, saw goals from Adam Henrique and Darnell Nurse. Despite the loss, the Oilers remained focused on securing points, acknowledging the importance of clinching at least second place in the Pacific Division for the upcoming playoffs.
Before the match, the Coyotes learned about the potential move after nearly three decades in Arizona. No Coyotes players spoke to the media afterward. Coach Tourigny declined to discuss the relocation rumors.
In overtime, Maccelli scored with a precise shot past Pickard, who had made some crucial saves moments earlier. It marked Maccelli’s 15th goal of the season.
Tourigny praised the team’s unity and determination, highlighting their supportive atmosphere and collective effort. Arizona took the lead early in the first period when Doan capitalized on a rebound, scoring his fourth goal of the season.
Despite being outplayed in the first period, Pickard’s strong performance kept the Oilers at bay. Edmonton had some scoring chances, including a shot by Evander Kane that hit the post midway through the period.
Edmonton equalized early in the second period when Henrique found the net with a close-range shot after a rebound from Kane’s attempt.
