(Photo Credit: SinBin.vegas Photographer Brandon Andreasen)
The Golden Knights are back home after a challenging 1-1-1 three-game road trip. It was Vegas’ first out-of-conference road trip of the season, they played three very difficult opponents, and left the Southeast with three hard-earned points.
Now, the schedule makers set up the Golden Knights with a six-game, two-week homestand. There are several playoff contenders in the mix, but there is also lesser competition. Enough that Vegas should take advantage of and build on their 6-1-3 start.
VGK Goals Scored vs Teams In Playoff Spots
vs. LAK: 5 Goals (3 EV, 2 PP)
@ SEA: 1 Goal (PP)
vs. CAR: 4 Goals (3 EV, ENG)
@ FLA: 0 Goals
@ CAR: 6 Goals (4 EV, PP, ENG)
So far this season, the Golden Knights have had no problems scoring against higher-tiered opponents. In five games against clubs in playoff positions, Vegas has recorded 16 goals. Ten coming against one of the Eastern Conference’s top teams.
Starting on Nevada Day, the Golden Knights will host the Colorado Avalanche, Detroit Red Wings, and Tampa Bay Lightning. All three are in a postseason position or within striking distance. Just like Vegas, two of the opponents are averaging 3 to 4 goals per game. However, both are allowing much more than the Golden Knights are.
The second set of the homestand, Vegas will welcome the Anaheim Ducks, Florida Panthers, and New York Islanders. All are 2 to 3 points from the playoff cut line. Based on the November 1st benchmark, those matches could be early must-win games for the Ducks or Islanders.
Vegas will not play in any back-to-back situations over the next two weeks, nor will any of their opponents be coming off of any. In theory, this could benefit the visitors. However, some lunatic predicted before the season the Golden Knights would only lose twice in November. So, good luck to any visiting or welcoming team over the next 30+ days.
