Las Vegas was buzzing on January 26, 2025, as the Vegas Golden Knights faced off against the Florida Panthers at T-Mobile Arena. The Golden Knights put on a dominant performance, defeating the Panthers 4-1. This victory not only marked their 19th win at home but also served as a much-needed morale boost for the team, who had struggled recently.
From the opening puck drop, the Panthers came out strong, attempting to establish control. Despite their energetic start, it was Vegas who struck first. At 5:26 of the first period, defenseman Brayden McNabb found the back of the net following a swift rush. Assisted by Keegan Kolesar, McNabb's one-timer gave the Golden Knights the early lead.
The second period saw the Golden Knights extend their lead. Tanner Pearson scored just 14 seconds after the period began, firing from a sharp angle to beat Panthers goaltender Spencer Knight. This put the Knights up 2-0 and shifted the momentum firmly in their favor.
Florida didn't back down easily. Early in the third period, they cut the deficit to one goal with Anton Lundell's deflection off Eetu Luostarinen's point shot, making it 2-1. The Panthers, feeling the pressure, seemed poised to rally.
But just as the Panthers were gaining hope, Jack Eichel responded, converting on a breakaway at 11:31 to regain the two-goal advantage for the Knights. He received the lead pass from Ivan Barbashev and showcased remarkable skill, maintaining his exceptional scoring trend.
The game was capped off with Tomas Hertl adding another for Vegas, scoring during the last minute of play with Knight pulled for the extra skater. Hertl’s empty-net goal solidified the Golden Knights' victory at 4-1.
Adin Hill was certainly the star of the evening, turning aside 32 out of 33 shot attempts from the Panthers. His performance helped him earn praise from his teammates, particularly highlighting the importance of getting back on track after earlier setbacks.
"It was important for us to get back on track and show what we can do as a team," Hill stated post-game, reflective of the team's determination to improve. Coach Paul Maurice of the Panthers acknowledged the difficult night, saying, "We just couldn’t find our rhythm, and they seized their chances. Our turnovers were costly."
This victory holds additional significance for the Golden Knights as it marks their first win against the Panthers since Game 5 of the 2023 Stanley Cup Final, snapping Florida's three-game winning streak against Vegas. The Golden Knights now sit at 31-15-4 overall, thereby reclaiming the top spot with 64 points, as they continue their campaign for playoff positioning.
Looking at what's next, the Golden Knights will have their work cut out for them as they prepare to face the Dallas Stars on Tuesday, aiming to build on this momentum. Meanwhile, the Panthers return home to South Florida, gearing up for their next matchup against the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday, eager to redirect their path.