Game 5’s in Stanley Cup Final series that are tied serve as gigantic opportunities. There have been 27 instances in NHL history in which the Final has been even after four games. The winner of Game 5 has gone on to win the Cup 20 times, or 75%. Road teams that go on to win Game 5 have a 5-4 record the rest of the way, while losing on the road leads to a putrid 3-15 mark.
The good news for VGK fans is that odd-numbered games have been Vegas’ bread and butter during these playoffs.
2026 Game 5’s
Game 1 vs UTA – 4-2 Win
Game 3 at UTA – 4-2 Loss
Game 5 vs UTA – 5-4 Win
Game 1 vs ANA – 3-1 Win
Game 3 at ANA – 6-2 Win
Game 5 vs ANA – 3-2 Win
Game 1 at COL – 3-1 Win
Game 3 vs COL – 5-3 Win
Game 1 at CAR – 5-4 Win
Game 3 vs CAR – 5-4 Win
The Golden Knights have won eight straight odd-numbered games this postseason and have outscored opponents 41-27. Vegas has scored at least three goals in all but one game and have reached four in six of the 10.
Historically, Game 5 has been a bit of a tough spot for VGK as they come into tonight’s game with just a 10-9 record. However, seven of the nine losses have come when the series is 3-1 either way.
Game 5 History By Series Score
Up 3-: 4-4
Tied: 6-2
Down 3-1: 0-3
Of the 19 Game 5’s VGK have played, just four have been away from home, and just two came with the series tied. In 2021, the Golden Knights traveled to Colorado after winning two straight at T-Mobile Arena to even up the series. Vegas won on a Mark Stone breakaway in overtime after trailing 2-0 to open the 3rd period. In 2024, the Stars and Golden Knights played a crazy 1st period, which saw VGK take a 1-0 lead, DAL answer back with two, and a William Carrier wraparound tied it. The Stars scored a power play goal late in the 2nd period and won the game 3-2.
This postseason, the Golden Knights have been spectacular in the most important games. They are a perfect 4-0 in series openers, and they are an immaculate 3-0 in closeout games.
To win the Stanley Cup in 2026, they’re going to need at least one more odd-numbered game on the road, and there’s no better time than tonight in Raleigh.
rb7
Vgk have to deliver on performance and execution, not numerology.
Jeffrey Sutton
i can’t take it…
DruBlu
I know. This is making me lose it. I already have anxiety and a heart stent. This is truly unhealthy, but I can’t look away. Hard to stay optimistic in a series this even. Terrifying. The game 4 loss really did a number on me. We really needed that one, and we just handed them that GWG.
Larry
Play hard. Play fast. Play smart.Play aggressive. Play like nobody is watching you. Play Golden Knights hockey. Play to make yourself proud. Play to make Vegas proud! Play like there is no tomorrow! Play with your backs up against the wall.
VGK fan
I like it now all they have to do is actually do it
hdbiker7851
Larry – not sure anyone is listening.
Robert Bryson Kekaimalu Coburn
One Game At A Time Boys! Game 6 Find A Way To Win! Put The Canes On The Heels To Start Game 6! Play Your Best With Ferocious Speed and Precision! It Takes A Village! Start Strong, Play Strong And Finish Strong!! DONT STOP BELIEVING! WE CAN DO THIS!!! GO KNIGHTS GO!!