LAS VEGAS -- The Minnesota Wild face off against the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 2 of their first-round matchup in the Western Conference playoffs at T-Mobile Arena tonight. The puck drops at 11 p.m. ET, with the Golden Knights leading the best-of-seven series 1-0 after a tightly contested Game 1 that ended 4-2 in favor of Vegas.
In Game 1, the Golden Knights secured their lead with a buzzer-beating empty-net goal from forward Brett Howden, marking a strong start to the series. Both teams emerged from the game healthy and are expected to stick with their successful lineups for this evening's clash, as adjustments will be minimal according to both coaches.
“One of the things I enjoy about coaching at this time of year is the chess matches,” said Vegas coach Bruce Cassidy. “What do we see going in that's changed? I enjoy days like today where we look at the game from yesterday and see things that maybe you didn't see in real time.”
On the Golden Knights' side, they will dress the same lineup that led them to victory in Game 1. Key players include Ivan Barbashev, Jack Eichel, and Mark Stone, who will look to build on their performance. Cassidy noted that he plans to focus on how his team handles the Wild’s top line, which was responsible for both of Minnesota’s goals in Game 1, scored by Matt Boldy.
Boldy made a significant impact in Game 1, not only netting both goals for Minnesota but also recording two shots and nine shot attempts. Cassidy acknowledged the need for adjustments in his defense pairs to counteract the Wild's offensive threats effectively.
“I think last night we were able to play a connected five-man unit game,” said Minnesota coach John Hynes, referring to the Wild's performance. “Our puck movement was quick, and we had good support on the puck.” Hynes emphasized the importance of increasing their shot production, as the Wild had 70 shot attempts but only managed to get 20 through to the net, with the Golden Knights blocking 25 shots.
Ryan Hartman is expected to see an increased role for the Wild, moving up to the third line after a solid performance in Game 1 where he finished with an assist, a plus-2 rating, three shots on goal, and nine shot attempts in just under 15 minutes of ice time. Hynes praised Hartman’s discipline and focus, especially under physical pressure from the Golden Knights.
“He played the game, played harder, and that’s what we need from Ryan,” Hynes said. “That was a guy that was locked in.”
As the teams prepare for tonight's game, the Golden Knights will look to outcompete the Wild physically, having registered 29 hits in Game 1 compared to Minnesota's 54. Cassidy reiterated the need for his team to win races and battles on the ice to secure a favorable outcome.
“Competitiveness, winning your races and battles, is always at the top of the list for me,” Cassidy stated. “It won't be any different.”
Statistics from Game 1 highlight the importance of face-offs, with the Wild winning 39 of 65 draws (60 percent). Joel Eriksson Ek was particularly dominant, taking 31 face-offs and winning 21. Hynes noted that winning face-offs allows teams to dictate the pace of the game, making it a crucial aspect of their strategy.
The stakes are high as history shows that teams taking a 2-0 lead in a best-of-seven series have an impressive all-time record of 353-56 (.863), including a staggering 266-34 (.887) when starting at home. This makes tonight's game pivotal for both teams.
In terms of betting odds, the Golden Knights are -245 moneyline favorites, while the Wild are +200 underdogs. The total for the game is set at 5.5 goals, with the Golden Knights favored to cover the spread by 1.5 goals.
As the playoff action heats up, fans can expect a thrilling contest as the Wild look to even the series and the Golden Knights aim to extend their lead. With both teams showcasing their strengths and making strategic adjustments, Game 2 promises to be an exciting matchup.
Tonight's game will not only be a test of skill but also of strategy, as both coaches look to outmaneuver each other in this high-stakes playoff series. Will the Wild bounce back and level the series, or will the Golden Knights continue their dominance? Fans will have to tune in to find out!
