The Vegas Golden Knights got their storybook ending. The Golden Knights defeated the Florida Panthers in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final, routing the Panthers 9-3. It was a poetic end, with the Knights clinching the championship on home ice, six years after watching the Washington Capitals get handed the trophy on the same ice. We’re breaking down the biggest keys to the win.
Golden Knights Win the 2023 Stanley Cup
Big Names, Big Plays
Vegas’ goals came from up and down the lineup. They had contributions from defencemen Alec Martinez and Nicholas Hague and bottom-six forwards Michael Amadio and Nicolas Roy. But it was Vegas’ big names who made the biggest impact. Captain Mark Stone had a hat trick, and “Original Misfit” Reilly Smith netted the game-winning goal. Jack Eichel and Jonathan Marchessault also notched assists.
For Florida, it was the lack of one of their biggest stars that sealed their fate. Matthew Tkachuk did not play in Game 5 after suffering a broken sternum. Without Tkachuk’s ability to generate offence and motivate his team, Florida struggled to finish chances and give themselves the opportunity to stay alive.
Special Teams
The Florida Panthers became the first team since the 1948 Detroit Red Wings to not score on the power-play during a Stanley Cup Final series. The Panthers were 0-14 on the power play, and allowed a short-handed goal to open the scoring in Game 5. The lack of success on the man-up opportunity killed any momentum that Florida had, and Vegas was able to capitalize.
Depth in Vegas
The big names for Vegas stepped up in Game 5, but Vegas’ depth has been the biggest deciding factor for the Golden Knights’ win in the Stanley Cup. Vegas was able to roll four lines and three defensive pairings throughout the entirety of the playoffs. The team stayed healthier and fresher as a result.
Vegas’ depth becomes especially apparent in second period statistics when Vegas has the long change. Vegas outscored opponents 34-11 in the second period throughout the playoffs. It also meant they were able to avoid match-up fatigue against tough opponents. The McDavids, Draisaitls, Robertsons, and Tkachuks were neutralized by every line, and Vegas was able to capitalize on mismatches when they were available.
Goaltending
Game 5 was a goalie battle once again. Adin Hill was exceptional in Game 5, making several tough stops at the beginning of the game. His demeanor allowed Vegas to rebound from a slightly shaky start, keeping them from falling into an early hole. He finished out a remarkable playoff debut with a .914 save percentage and 32 saves in Game 5.
The blue paint is another area where Vegas’ depth was vital. Adin Hill was the first goalie in NHL history to win more than ten playoff games after not playing in the first round. He stepped into a difficult role, and lived up to the occasion.
Two Great Seasons
Despite the disappointment in the Stanley Cup Final, the Florida Panthers’ season is nothing to scoff at. They defeated three of the top five teams in the league on their way to the Cup Final, and have a good core they can build on for years to come.
In Vegas, this one means a lot. Six years ago, owner Bill Foley made a prediction. He said that the Vegas Golden Knights would win the Stanley Cup in six years. His team rallied around their new city in the face of unimaginable tragedy, and cemented themselves into the fabric of Las Vegas. They came up short that first year. Six years later, just like Foley said, they’re standing on top of the mountain, bringing the Stanley Cup home. Pretty cool full-circle moment for a team and a city that have always been there for each other.
Main Photo: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
