Golden Knights' Brayden McNabb Scores Game Winning Goal In Game 1

Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Brayden McNabb set a new career high in points this season and scored the game-winning goal in Game 1 against the Dallas Stars.

Jason Robertson made it a one-goal game late in the first period but before the Stars could build momentum, McNabb threw a puck at the net and it found its way in. 

McNabb has been a bit of an unsung hero this season. He was the only Golden Knight defenseman to play in all 82 games and was effective in almost every game. He set a new career-high in points with 26. He was also second on the team in plus/minus. 

The 33-year-old has never been known for his offensive game, where his value lies, is on the defensive side of the game. He uses his 6'4, 215 lbs frame to be a physical force. He finished the season with 149 hits and 207 blocks. In Game 1, he recorded eight blocks which was one less save than Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Frederik Andersen had to make against the New York Islanders. His ability to block shots and box players out is crucial to the Golden Knights success. 

McNabb excelled in every facet of the game yesterday. He is a huge factor on the Golden Knights penalty kill and if they want to slow down the Stars' sixth-ranked power play, they'll need McNabb to continue at this level. 

A lot of the Golden Knights' success against the Stars will likely come from performances like McNabb's. The Stars will come out desperate and hungry on Wednesday to ensure they win a game at home before travelling to Vegas. 

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