In early December, we pointed out winning trend for the Golden Knights. It’s quite simple, when they get 35 shots on goal, they win. When we published that article, Vegas as 7-0, after last night, it’s 11-0.
Game 2 @ Arizona: 42 SOG (VGK wins 2-1 OT)
Game 19 vs LA: 40 SOG (VGK wins 4-2)
Game 20 @ Anaheim: 49 SOG (VGK wins 4-2)
Game 26 vs Arizona: 45 SOG (VGK wins 3-2 OT)
Game 27 vs Anaheim: 43 SOG (VGK wins 4-3 SO)
Game 28 @ Nashville: 39 SOG (VGK wins 4-3 SO)
Game 29 @ Dallas: 39 SOG (VGK wins 5-3)
Game 32 vs Florida: 40 SOG (VGK wins 5-2)
Game 33 vs Tampa: 36 SOG (VGK wins 4-3)
Game 36 @ LA: 39 SOG (VGK Wins 3-2 OT)
Game 40 @ Chicago: 43 SOG (VGK Wins 5-4)
Last night in Chicago, Vegas relentlessly pressured poor Blackhawks backup Jeff Glass with 43 SOG. In fact, the Golden Knights hit the 35 shot mark by the 40 minute mark. The Blackhawks noticed.
It wasn’t a great night for our [defense]… We gave them the puck and possession on almost every entry, not denying them what we wanted to do. -Joel Quenneville, Blackhawks Head Coach
35 shots or more continues to be the golden number for the Golden Knights. During their unprecedented thirteen game point streak, the Golden Knights hit their magic number seven times. After last night, Vegas is (18-4-0) when outshooting their opponents. Their high shot volume is causing major issues for opposing goaltenders. The combination of more chances, and wearing down the opponent is a winning strategy for the Golden Knights.
But honestly, what isn’t a winning strategy for this team?
thecommish
As the Roman Lucretius once said, “Constant dripping hollows out a stone.” Having more shots on goal does not win every game, but it sure helps. Opposing teams know the Golden Knights are relentless and that puts so much pressure on a defense and a goalie. You can only block so many shots before it starts to hurt and you chop that wood completely. Gallant is like General Patton who said, “We are advancing constantly and we are not interested in holding onto anything.”