LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — A loss to the Colorado Avalanche last week proved to be one of the most consequential losses of the Vegas Golden Knight's fourth season.
The Avalanche went on to win their final two games of the season to clinch the top spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs - pitting the Knights against an opponent they've struggled against during the regular season - the Minnesota Wild.
The series starts at noon Sunday at the T-Mobile Arena. Golden Knights currently hold a 3-4-1 season record against the Wild, making Minnesota the only team Vegas hasn't secured a winning record against in the regular season.
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Golden Knights General Manager Kelly McCrimmon says the teams would match well in this first round of potentially seven games.
"They had a heck of a year," he said. "They played us really hard. They play a really direct game. They've got a really good defense, the things that I've talked about. Offensively, it's real balance. They've had some young players emerge and take a step. I think we have as well."
The Golden Knights enter the playoffs with the lowest goals allowed in the league and the second-best point percentage, setting them up for a potential deep run.
One advantage Vegas hasn't enjoyed in two years has been a home-ice advantage with fans in the stands, and that will be different as T-Mobile Arena has already welcomed fans back into seats this season.
Here is a look at the schedule:
- The first two games of the series will be played at The Fortress (T-Mobile Arena).
- Game 1 is at noon on Sunday.
- Game 2 is at 7 p.m. on Tuesday.
- The Wild will host games 3 and 4.
