The Vegas Golden Knights are drawing on their experience as they navigate their playoff series against the Anaheim Ducks. Following a 4-3 loss to the Ducks, the Golden Knights appear unfazed as they head into what is now a best-of-three situation.
Golden Knights’ Playoff Pedigree
Since entering the league in 2017, the Golden Knights have played in and won more playoff games than any other NHL team. The team seems to thrive under pressure as a series deepens.
Coach John Tortorella expressed confidence in his team. “I have zero worry about this team, as far as how we’re going to go about the next few games here, wherever it goes,” Tortorella said. “I have total trust.”
Over the last three seasons, the Golden Knights have a 10-4 record in Games 5, 6, and 7 of playoff series. In those games, they have outscored their opponents 51-28.
Game 4 Loss and Key Absences
The Golden Knights’ Brayden McNabb said, “You want to get better, and we have. It’s a best-of-three, and we’re going home for Game 5. That’s all we’re thinking about is Game 5, and trying to get a win there.”
In Game 4, the Golden Knights were limited to just 28 shot attempts. This was their fewest in any game this postseason or in any playoff game over the last three years. Vegas also set new playoff lows in scoring chances, high-danger chances and expected goals created at five-on-five.
The Golden Knights are dealing with the absence of Mark Stone, who was injured in Game 3.
Drawing on Past Experiences
Colton Sissons said, “We did have some good looks. We always want more, and I don’t think we had a ton tonight, but we had enough really good looks to put up some goals and they just didn’t go.”
The Golden Knights have recent experience to draw on, having faced the Utah Mammoth in the first round. The Golden Knights eventually eliminated them in a 5-1 win in Game 6.
The Golden Knights are aiming to leverage their experience as the series continues.