Theodore scored a crucial goal for the Golden Knights, cutting the lead to 2-1 late in the second period. He skillfully maneuvered past opponents Heineman and Ryan Pulock, moving the puck to his forehand before slipping it past Sorokin’s right pad at the left post.
“Goals aren’t coming easily, especially far away from the net,” remarked Smith. “So, you just have to grind your way kind of through and find opportunities in the paint.”
In an exciting turn, Hertl equalized for the team at 8:23 of the third period during a delayed penalty, capitalizing on a rebound from Jeremy Lauzon’s shot that Sorokin had blocked.
The momentum shifted when Smith scored again for the Golden Knights at 10:45, putting them ahead 3-2. He seized a loose puck along the goal line, expertly lifting it over Sorokin’s left pad. Although Roy challenged the goal for potential goaltender interference, the call was upheld after a thorough video review.
“We’ve been strong at closing out games, to be honest,” said Vegas coach Bruce Cassidy. “Tonight we didn’t get it done. We had opportunities to extend our lead but failed to capitalize, even giving up a 2-on-1 chance.”
Noteworthy performances continued as Sorokin achieved his 131st NHL win, surpassing Rick DiPietro to secure the third place in Islanders history. Horvat maintained his hot streak, extending his point streak to seven games with six goals and five assists, while Barzal pushed his streak to five games with two goals and three assists. Golden Knights’ Braeden Bowman had an impressive NHL debut, firing four shots in 16:45 of ice time.
This game highlights the intense competition in the league and the determination of players to create opportunities, setting an optimistic tone for the teams moving forward.