Game 5 was another addition to the number of evenly-matched overtime games that have characterized the running narrative in this series. It was also yet another game where neither team carried a definitive edge at 5v5, with shots, shot attempts, and scoring chances all finishing in just about a dead heat.
The relatively even 5on5 play throughout the series has resulted in more attention focused on the special teams battle. The Leafs were overmatched in that area on Friday. Kevin Shattenkirk and Nick Backstrom broke down the Leafs PKers, setting up TJ Oshie for the 1-0 goal on the power play, while jumbled zone entries combined with great PK work by Washington led to an 0 for 4 night for the Toronto power play.