Jason Franson/The Canadian Press via AP
Vegas Golden Knights’ Alex Tuch (89) is stopped by Chicago Blackhawks goalie Corey Crawford (50) during the second period of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup first-round playoff series, Saturday, Aug. 15, 2020, in Edmonton, Alberta.
Sunday, Aug. 16, 2020 | 2 a.m.
Fresh off a victory in Game 3 last night, the Golden Knights return at 3:30 p.m. today on AT&T SportsNet looking for a playoff sweep against Chicago.
Vegas hasn’t trailed in any game of the series. Here are three keys to continue the streak, powered by Credit One Bank.
Get the power play going
The Golden Knights are scoreless in the series on six power plays. And, on one of the attempts with a man advantage, Vegas surrendered a goal. Part of struggles can be attributed roster instability, as Max Pacioretty and Paul Stastny have both missed games this series. Vegas hasn’t had a chance to establish its power-play lines the way it wants, and six power plays isn’t much of a sample from which to draw definitive conclusions. It hasn’t hurt the Golden Knights yet, but as the postseason progresses, they’ll need to net some power-play goals.
Jump early and often
The Golden Knights have scored three goals in the first period in the last two games. When the Blackhawks made their inevitable push, Vegas had a big enough lead that Chicago’s comeback fell short. The Golden Knights have yet to trail in the series, and so far have proven to be the better team. Jumping out to an early lead would go a long way to ending the series.
Finish it
The Golden Knights were up 3-1 in their series against the Sharks last year and let it slip away. Even though it’s a different situation, Vegas wants no part of a Game 7, 6 or even 5 against the Blackhawks. They’ve got Chicago on the ropes, all that’s left is finishing the series.
Justin Emerson can be reached at 702-259-8814 or [email protected]. Follow Justin on Twitter at twitter.com/@j15emerson.
