Independence, MO — The Kansas City Mavericks took control of their opening-round playoff series with a decisive 5-1 victory over the Tulsa Oilers in Game 3 of the Mountain Division Semifinals on Tuesday night at BOK Center. The Mavericks now hold a 2-1 series lead in the best-of-seven matchup.
Kansas City’s offense erupted in the second period, scoring four times to break open what had been a 1-0 game after one. The Mavericks were also efficient on special teams, converting 1-of-2 power plays and going 3-for-3 on the penalty kill.
Cade Borchardt opened the scoring with his fifth goal of the playoffs at 12:11 of the first period, assisted by Casey Carreau and Max Andreev.
The second period was all Kansas City. Damien Giroux scored at 9:01, followed by goals from Zack Trott (16:44), Charlie Wright (18:45), and David Cotton (19:10) to put the Mavericks ahead 5-0 after 40 minutes.
Jack LaFontaine was steady in net, turning aside 23 of 24 shots. Tulsa’s only goal came at 16:01 of the third period, scored by Mike McKee.
Kansas City outshot Tulsa 26-24, with contributions from all four lines and a strong defensive effort to shut things down late.
Game 4 will take place Thursday night at BOK Center, where the Mavericks will look to take a commanding 3-1 series lead. Puck drop is set for 7:05.
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