The true winner of Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final is the fans.
Not necessarily fans of the Vegas Golden Knights and Carolina Hurricanes, because they’re probably still catching their breath after another wild series of twists and turns.
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But hockey fans, in general.
How many thought that this series would be a defensive slog with both teams so capable of limiting opponents’ chances?
Instead, it has been crazily unpredictable with 25 total goals over three games and comebacks galore. The first two games produced something never done before in the Stanley Cup Final when each had a multigoal comeback. And then Carolina overcame a 4-0 deficit to force overtime before falling in the second overtime.
Here are the winners and losers of Game 3:
WINNERS
Golden Knights forward Mitch Marner
He set a record for the fastest hat trick in the Stanley Cup Final and added an assist to give Vegas that 4-0 lead. And he was dangerous other times, such as getting a penalty shot.
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Hurricanes goalie Brandon Bussi
He hadn’t played a second of the postseason before replacing Frederik Andersen after the second intermission. But he quickly had to stop Marner’s penalty shot and make other tough saves to allow Carolina to get back into the game. He can’t be faulted for the fluke goal he allowed in the second overtime.
Golden Knights defenseman Brayden McNabb
He went to the hospital and needed 20 to 30 stitches after getting hit by a puck in Game 2. He returned for Game 3 and wasn’t eased back in. He played nearly 36 minutes and had two assists, including on the game-winner. That’s five assists in two full games for a player mostly known for the defensive side of his game.
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LOSERS
The way the game ended
Once you reach the second overtime, it’s usually not going to be a brilliant play that ends the game. But Shea Theodore’s goal is about as fluky as it gets. His shot hit the back boards and went in off Bussi. Doesn’t seem a fitting way to end a game that had so much going for it.
The starting goaltenders
Carolina’s Andersen and Vegas’ Carter Hart were stellar in earlier rounds. Less so in the Final. They both have played a lot more consecutive games than they usually do. There are two days off until Game 4. Maybe the rest will help. Or does coach Rod Brind’Amour start Bussi in Game 4?
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Hurricanes injuries
William Carrier, the former Golden Knight who was cheered during introductions, had to leave the game after a check. K’Andre Miller was working with a trainer earlier in the game. Jalen Chatfield fell awkwardly though a bench door when it opened as he was checked. Carrier’s injury seemed the most serious.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Stanley Cup Game 3 winners, losers: Mitch Marner, Brayden McNabb shine
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