Finding Success On The Power Play Can Unlock Golden Knights Offensive Potential
The Vegas Golden Knights scored twice on the power play last night, it was their first power-play goal in four games and the first game scoring multiple power-play goals in 43 games.
Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports - Finding Success On The Power Play Can Unlock Golden Knights Offensive PotentialThe Vegas Golden Knights scored twice on the power play last night, it was their first power-play goal in four games and the first game scoring multiple power-play goals in 43 games.
Not since Dec. 17 in a 6-3 win over the Ottawa Senators have the Golden Knights scored more than one power-play goal in a game. Nicolas Roy and William Karlsson scored the power play markers.
In an emphatic 6-3 win over the Vancouver Canucks, Noah Hanifin and William Karlsson each scored on the power play. It was Hanifin's first goal with the Golden Knights as well.
Karlsson's 26th goal of the season came a 1:46 into the second period.
The Golden Knights had a five-minute power play after Nikita Zadorov was ejected for boarding Brett Howden. Howden stayed in the game and later scored the sixth goal for the Golden Knights.
Rick Dhaliwal reported that Zadorov will not face further discipline from the NHL Department of Player Safety for the hit on Howden.
Special teams can help decide a series. During the Golden Knights playoff run they converted on 21.9% of their power play opportunities. This season the Golden Knights are clicking at 18.9%. The Golden Knights are likely to match up with the Edmonton Oilers and their power play is ranked second in the league, executing at 27.5%.
The Golden Knights won't need to outperform the Oilers' power play but will need to at least compete with it. The power play has been dreadful for the Golden Knights for most of the season but with the roster nearing full health, finding a way to improve can be crucial for the team.
The Golden Knights are 13th in the league in goals-per-game but just 21st in power play percentage. The potential for this offence to be even more dangerous with a stronger power play is an exciting thought. The addition of Tomas Hertl and depending on his health, Mark Stone should help the team's effectiveness on the man-advantage.
Two power play goals against the Pacific Division leaders is hopefully a good sign for things to come.
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