Fresh off a Stanley Cup win the previous year, Nicklas Lidstrom had an outstanding 1998 postseason, leading all defensemen with 19 points, including six goals. Perhaps his most significant tally was his game-winning goal in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final against Washington. In the offensive zone, the puck worked its way back to the point where Lidstrom unleashed a powerful one-timer, beating the goaltender. His first-period goal proved to be the deciding factor, helping Detroit secure an early series lead at home. Lidstrom and the Red Wings ultimately clinched back-to-back championships by defeating the Capitals in four games.