Växjö Lakers defeated Brynäs IF 3-2 in Game 4 of the SHL playoff quarterfinals at Monitor ERP Arena in Gävle, taking a commanding 3-1 series lead despite being outshot 32-17. Brogan Rafferty scored the late power-play winner after Brynäs' too many men penalty, capping a wild third period that saw Växjö's Eemeli Suomi receive a match penalty.
Växjö struck first in the opening period with Dylan McLaughlin's power-play goal, assisted by Leo Sahlin Wallenius. Brynäs equalized when Johan Larsson deflected a shot past Adam Åhman with his skate, set up by Johannes Kinnvall and Jakob Silfverberg. After the first period, the score was 1-1.
In the second period, Eemeli Suomi restored Växjö's lead by tipping in a Wallenius shot, making it 2-1 after 40 minutes.
The third period was chaotic. Suomi received a match penalty for cross-checking, allowing Brynäs to tie the game at 2-2 on the five-minute power play via Silfverberg. Later, with 3.5 minutes left, Brynäs was penalized for too many men on the ice (six players), and Rafferty capitalized on the power play for the 3-2 winner.
Växjö goaltender Adam Åhman made 30 of 32 saves to earn hero honors, saying, 'I got good help and could focus on mine.' Brynäs coach Niklas Gällstedt lamented to TV4 Play: 'We are too hot-headed.' Nicklas Bäckström notched his first playoff point with Brynäs but highlighted self-inflicted errors. Växjö can clinch the series at home in Game 5 on Wednesday.
