The Vegas Golden Knights claimed a 4-3 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals, thanks to Brett Howden’s game-winning goal less than two minutes into overtime. Chandler Stephenson carried the puck into the Stars’ zone before playing a centering pass to Mark Stone, who made an instant backhanded pass to Howden, who was left alone at the net front.
Howden’s goal is the latest example of the Golden Knights’ ability to get goals from their entire lineup. Throughout the playoffs, they have had 14 different players score goals, equaling the Carolina Hurricanes and Florida Panthers.
Karlsson’s constant movement brings the Golden Knights ahead
The Golden Knights’ William Karlsson played a key role in the team’s victory, tying the game at 1 in the second period before giving the Golden Knights a 2-1 lead just 1:19 into the third period. Both of Karlsson’s goals were a result of his constant movement. Karlsson carried the puck into the Stars’ zone and played a pass to Zach Whitecloud. Karlsson kept skating and was able to get to the net front right as Whitecloud’s shot went off the boards with Karlsson there to collect the rebound and fire it into an open net.
His second goal came after a blocked shot that led to a 50-50 puck that Karlsson snagged before creating a little bit of separation before firing off a wrister that beat Jake Oettinger for the lead.
Stars’ late push not enough to secure victory
Teddy Blueger scored what looked like the initial game-winning goal with a little more than 10 minutes left in the third period, putting the Golden Knights in the lead. However, this led to a late push by the Stars, resulting in Jamie Benn’s game-tying goal with 1:59 left in the third.
Despite the Stars’ push, they were not able to secure the victory, and the Golden Knights claimed Game 1. Taking Game 1 has not been a necessity for the Golden Knights, having lost 5-1 to open the first round against the Winnipeg Jets before winning in six. But they did win Game 1 versus the Edmonton Oilers before clinching that series in six wins.
The Golden Knights’ ability to get goals from their entire lineup has been a defining feature of their playoff run. This victory over the Stars marks the sixth time Hintz has finished with more than two points in a game, and he’s had more than three points in five of those performances. The Golden Knights will look to maintain their momentum in Game 2, while the Stars will be hoping to secure a win.
Leave a Reply