Behind a stellar 32-save performance from goaltender Adin Hill and a game-winning goal from Tanner Pearson, the Vegas Golden Knights secured a crucial 4-1 victory over the Florida Panthers on Sunday night. The win snapped a tough stretch for Vegas, who had lost seven of their last nine games, and marked a positive start to their three-game homestand.
The defending Stanley Cup champions were handed their first loss of the weekend after Florida had routed San Jose 7-2 the night before. Florida’s Anton Lundell tallied the lone goal for the Panthers, while Spencer Knight stopped 22 shots in the loss.
For Vegas, the offense came alive with Brayden McNabb, Jack Eichel, and Tomas Hertl each finding the back of the net. Nic Roy played a pivotal role with three assists, while Brett Howden added a milestone to the night by skating in his 400th career game.
The victory allowed the Golden Knights to reclaim sole possession of first place in the Pacific Division, edging a point ahead of the Edmonton Oilers. The team will look to build on this momentum when they host Dallas on Tuesday night.
Florida, meanwhile, missed a chance to reclaim the top spot in the Atlantic Division. With the loss, the Panthers remain one point behind the Toronto Maple Leafs. Florida returns home to host the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday night, beginning a three-game homestand.
One of the most critical sequences occurred early in the third period. With Vegas defenseman Nic Hague serving a slashing penalty and the Golden Knights clinging to a one-goal lead, the Panthers had an opportunity to capitalize on the power play. However, Florida boasting the league’s third-best road power play failed to break through against Vegas 21st-ranked penalty kill, allowing the Golden Knights to maintain their momentum.
Minutes later, Tanner Pearson buried his first game-winning goal of the season to extend Vegas lead, effectively sealing the game.
The Golden Knights showcased resilience, particularly after recently struggling to find consistency. Adin Hill’s standout performance in net provided the foundation for the teams success, while Nic Roy three assists and Pearson’s clutch scoring proved vital.
Just before the game, the team announced that defenseman Alex Pietrangelo would withdraw from the upcoming 4 Nations Faceoff. However, Pietrangelo logged an impressive 24:22 of ice time, reinforcing his importance to the team.
The Panthers faced a difficult challenge, playing their fourth road game in six nights and the second half of a back-to-back. Fatigue appeared to set in, particularly during the third period when the team couldn’t convert on key opportunities.
The Golden Knights will continue their homestand against the Dallas Stars on Tuesday night. Meanwhile, the Panthers head back to Florida to begin a three-game homestand, starting with the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday.
With the playoff picture already taking shape, both teams will aim to build momentum heading into the second half of the season.