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(Photo Credit: SinBin.vegas Photographer Brandon Andreasen)

It’s been no secret that over the past six seasons, the Pacific Division was regarded as one of the leagues least competitive. Let’s face it, for basically the entirety of the Golden Knights’ existence three or four teams were annually counted out of contention before the puck hit opening night ice. Vegas is the only team to reach the Stanley Cup Final in that span and the Golden Knights became the first Pacific division team to win the Cup since 2014.

Heading into the 2023-24 season, the division looks to play out the same way it did last year. Of course, it’s foolish to eliminate teams before the season begins but would anyone be surprised if Anaheim, San Jose, or Vancouver missed the 2024 playoffs? According to Sportsnet, they wouldn’t be.

Whether it’s a repeat from Vegas, a breakthrough for Edmonton, or something of a Cinderella story from Los Angeles or Seattle, might the 2024 Stanley Cup champion come out of the Pacific Division again? Might this division also house the team that “wins” the first-overall selection? –Sportsnet.ca

According to William Hill, the Pacific Division is expected to be conquered by the Edmonton Oilers (+180), the reigning champions (+210) or the LA Kings (+440) in 2024. The divisional odds are not much different from last season’s expected winners. Vegas came away with division with Edmonton and LA filling out the top three Pacific clubs. As you go further down the list, the prices drastically get larger, suggesting that it would be a major surprise if any team outside of the top three took the division.

VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS 4 VANCOUVER CANUCKS 3 (44-21-6, 94 PTS)

By Ken Boehlke

On March 21, 2023

In Game Recaps

Recap: The Golden Knights began their three-game Western Canadian road trip with a matchup in Vancouver. The Canucks were careless with the puck several times in the opening period. Phil Kessel intercepted a pass in the offensive zone to score his 13th goal of the season. Later in the frame, Reilly Smith took advantage of a loose puck and doubled the Golden Knights’ lead.

The Canucks were awarded a penalty shot after the Golden Knights committed a penalty on a breakaway. JT Miller converted on the free chance and got his team within one. Teddy Blueger flipped a puck into the net on his backhand to give Vegas a 3-1 advantage but Miller and the Canucks came right back. Late in the period, Pavel Dorofeyev deflected on the Golden Knights’ fourth goal of the contest.

Midway through the final frame the Canucks scored making it a 4-3 game. Vegas fought off several Vancouver chances, including a 6-on-5 late in the game.

The Golden Knights’ record improves to 44-21-6 defeating the Canucks 4-3. Vegas will next play the Flames on Thursday night in Calgary. Puck drop is scheduled for 6 PM. (Recap by Jason)

Analysis: The Golden Knights scored early on the road once again and as they have all season long, they were able to parlay that into another win. The 1st period was absolutely brilliant on both ends, especially defensively, but things did not go as smoothly defensively as the game went on. It’s another one where VGK defy the advance stats. At some point, if it keeps happening, it’ll stop becoming an outlier. (Analysis by Ken)

Upcoming stories from the Vegas Golden Knights vs. Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena.

VANCOUVER CANUCKS 5 VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS 1 (16-6-1, 33 PTS)

By Jason Pothier

On November 27, 2022

In Team Ops

The Golden Knights were looking to bounce back against the Vancouver Canucks after losing to the Seattle Kraken on Friday. The Canucks got off to an early start, scoring the only two goals of the first period. Vegas took three 1st period penalties that Vancouver took advantage of.

Trailing 2-0, the Golden Knights tried to stop the bleeding, but they continued to commit costly penalties. The Canucks scored three times and took a commanding 5-0 lead after 40 minutes of action.

Vegas let out their frustrations in the final period, dropping gloves multiple times with Vancouver players. Jonathan Marchessault and Keegan Kolesar both took five-minute penalties for fighting in the final period. Marchessault even snapped the Canucks shutout, but the Golden Knights wouldn’t get any closer.

The Golden Knights record drops to (16-6-1) losing to the Canucks 5-1 at T-Mobile Arena. Next, Vegas will pack their suitcases for a four-game, ten-day road trip. Puck drop against the Columbus Blue Jackets is scheduled for 4P PT on Monday. (Recap by Jason)

Optimistic intern is making an appearance. I’ve never seen a 5 goal comeback in person so tonight would be a cool time to see it.
— SinBin.vegas (@SinBinVegas) November 27, 2022

The optimism is fading. https://t.co/4gswlBl2DR
— SinBin.vegas (@SinBinVegas) November 27, 2022

(Analysis/Tweets by Alex the Intern)

VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS 5 VANCOUVER CANUCKS 4 (15-4-1, 31 PTS)

By Jason Pothier

On November 21, 2022

In Team Ops

The Golden Knights took a short trip from Alberta to British Columbia for a road matchup against the Canucks. Vancouver thought they had taken the first lead of the game but coach Bruce Cassidy challenged the goal and the officials ruled in his favor. The game was scoreless after the opening twenty minutes.

Vancouver officially took the lead midway through the middle frame waking up Vegas’ offense. Jack Eichel flung the puck on net and Mark Stone deflected in the game-tying goal. Less than a minute left, William Carrier scored the go ahead goal assisted again by Eichel. The Golden Knights carried a 2-1 advantage into the 2nd intermission.

The Canucks came out red hot in the final frame, scoring three straight goals in the opening 6:11 of the period. However, Vegas stormed back. Trailing 4-2, Carrier got his team within one, scoring his second of the game and Reilly Smith jammed in the equalizer. The Golden Knights believed they had taken the lead but Mark Stone’s goal was waived off. Minutes later Alex Pietrangelo scored cleanly for the game winning goal.

The Golden Knights record improves to (15-4-1) defeating the Canucks 5-4 in Vancouver. Vegas will next face the Ottawa Senators Wednesday night from the Fortress. Puck drop is scheduled for 7P PT. (Recap by Jason)

Tonight's forecast:
VGK 5
Vancouver 2
— SinBin.vegas (@SinBinVegas) November 22, 2022

3 out of 4 points on the trip. Vancouver not a great team, and VGK not playing their best, but you have to like the offensive zone work in that 3rd period. If only 81 could have buried one of those empty netters!
— SinBin.vegas (@SinBinVegas) November 22, 2022

(Analysis/Tweets by Kevin Janison)

Teams With Opposite Starts To The Season Crash Tonight In Vancouver

By Jason Pothier

On November 21, 2022

In Team Ops

(Photo Credit: SinBin.vegas Photographer Brandon Andreasen)

Saturday’s game in Edmonton didn’t end like the Golden Knights had planned. In reality, when superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl score in the same game, picking up a point isn’t half bad. With a win tonight in Vancouver, Vegas will have a chance to return home with three of a possible four divisional points. Not bad for a two game set against Pacific teams scratching and clawing for wins.

At least a point on the road in Edmonton is good. But VGK should have won this game in regulation. Could've used one on the PP.
— SinBin.vegas (@SinBinVegas) November 20, 2022

Okay, it’s not a five game, eleven day road trip to the East Coast but traveling to Western Canada can be a challenge. Rewind back to last season when the Golden Knights were chasing instead of leading the division. Edmonton and Vancouver pitched in by spoiling Vegas’ 2021-22 playoff dreams. In three crucial games in mid-April, Vegas left Western Canada with on win.

This season the tables have turned. At the moment, Vegas has a 96% chance to qualify for the playoffs, Vancouver has a bleak 21% chance. There’s no sugar-coating it, the Canucks have had a nightmare start to the season. Just picture the complete opposite of the Golden Knights first 19 games. Not only does losing suck but each Vancouver loss is followed with unpleasant questions about coach dismissals, player fire sales and underachieving personnel. From this point going forward Vancouver will have to outperform the entire division for a sniff of a playoff run.

We know who are next opponents are. You keep the shots to the outside. Most of them won’t go in.-Bruce Boudreau, Canucks coach

For the Golden Knights, it’s another opportunity to separate themselves from another club in the Pacific. So far, the Golden Knights have earned at least one point in five of six divisional matchups. If they pick up any more tonight, Vegas will have points against each Pacific team with the exception of Calgary. Unfortunately, we’ll have to wait until late February for a second battle with the Flames.

Bruce Cassidy Not The Only Coach Frustrated With Preseason Defeats

By Jason Pothier

On October 3, 2022

In Team Ops

(Photo Credit: SinBin.vegas Photographer Brandon Andreasen)

This weekend the Golden Knights had their worst outing of the preseason. Vegas lost 7-3 to the San Jose Sharks and their head coach was not happy with their effort.

It’s an attention-getter. You’ve played your games you’ve been at Training Camp, we’re not nearly where we need to be so we’ve got to get the hell back to work the next time we reconvene. That to me is the message that will be sent when we get back together. -Bruce Cassidy

In most cases, exhibition games are considered tune-ups and extended tryouts for prospects. However, with the brief time Bruce Cassidy has had with his new club, every shift counts. With only eight days before Vegas opens the 2022-23 season, it’s vital the Golden Knights continue to learn and execute their leader’s instructions.

After three preseason contests Vegas looked as if they had absorbed their coach’s new defensive look. On Friday night it fell apart. So of course Cassidy was frustrated with the results. This weekend, the Golden Knights coach wasn’t the only one to voice his concerns after lopsided defeats.

Tonight, a lot of the pressure in our D-zone we couldn’t handle it. We couldn’t handle their speed. Consequently they get the opportunities. We’re going to get better but it’s just not happening as quickly as I’d like it to be. -Bruce Boudreau, Canucks coach

After a 4-0 shutout, Pittsburgh coach Mike Sullivan told the media he was reluctant to talk about his team’s effort. In Pennsylvania’s other metropolis, Flyers bench boss John Tortorella was focused on his player’s confidence. In St. Louis, coach Craig Berube was at a loss for words.

Not enough. We didn’t do enough all around. It wasn’t a very good game. We should’ve played better for them, it was a great crowd.-Craig Berube, Blues coach

This very well could be a ploy from Cassidy and other veteran coaches to get their players’ mentally before regular season action. If you ignore the score, there were several positives to take away from Vegas’ fourth exhibition game. Offensively, Jack Eichel looks dangerous and heathy, while Mark Stone flashed his play-making abilities in his return, and Paul Cotter continued his seemingly undeniable run at a roster spot.

Also, it should be noted that Jake Leschyshyn dropped gloves and defended himself after landing a clean but hard hit on a Sharks player. That’s the character and culture stuff that un-frustrates Cassidy and other coaches.

VGK Misses Out On Inexpensive Top-Six Option

By Jason Pothier

On June 22, 2022

In Team Ops

(Photo Credit: SinBin.vegas Photographer Brandon Andreasen)

The first article of business was taken care of last week when the Golden Knights announced Bruce Cassidy as their next coach. Next on the list, improve the roster.

Earlier in the offseason, the Golden Knights were tied to KHL star Andrei Kuzmenko. The 26-year-old totaled 53 points in 49 games with SKA St. Petersburg this season and would have fit well with VGK’s shrinking cap room. Unfortunately, Vancouver was able to offer Kuzmenko more than just money.

That’s a big win for the Canucks. I really thought the two favorites were Vancouver and Edmonton. These were two GMs who had been after Kuzmenko for some time. There were a few teams, even some of the other ones in it who thought it would be Vancouver or Edmonton.-Elliotte Friedman on 32 Thoughts Podcast

Not only did the Golden Knights miss out on what would have been the perfect offseason risk, but they also lost Kuzmenko to a maturing team in their own division. The Canucks added another offensive weapon in his mid-twenties to an already bright roster.

On top of upside, Kuzmenko was brought in on an entry-level NHL contract. Not only will he be eager to play in a new league, the former KHL’er will be motivated to produce so he can strut into free agency. Sure, Vegas can take a run at Kuzmenko next summer but the value won’t be there.

Kuzmenko could only sign a one-year deal. So he needs a new contract for the next year. He knows he had to be in a good situation to set up that next contract. The one thing he had to be convinced of was he would be put in a situation where he would have a good run at another contract. At the very least Vancouver has to convince him of that. –Friedman on 32 Thoughts Podcast

VGK Set To Advance Next Postseason Against Weak Pacific

By Jason Pothier

On May 12, 2022

In Team Ops

(Photo Credit: SinBin.vegas Photographer Brandon Andreasen)

Throughout team history, Vegas averages 102 points over an 82 game season. This season, 102 points would’ve earned Vegas a third place finish in the Pacific Division and a seven game series against Edmonton. There’s a strong case that a healthy Golden Knights roster would’ve given the Oilers a run for their money.

There are no excuses and we need to have a good start and go from there, but this is part of playoff hockey and you’re going to go through adversity. There are no easy games and no easy series, so we’re going to be prepared to go .-Ryan Nugent Hopkins, EDM forward

So far, only the Central Division has had a team eliminated. In a few days, it’s possible two of three Pacific Division teams are sent home packing as well. Sure, Calgary is up a game but Dallas hasn’t been an easy opponent. In the other western series, the Oilers have fallen right into the trap of the underdog Kings. It’s premature but none of the three Pacific teams are looking like favorites to win the Stanley Cup.

Let’s say the Golden Knights are healthy enough next season to make the playoffs. If they top off at 102 points they would likely be the second or third team coming out of the Pacific. In that case, Vegas would be guaranteed to face off against a divisional rival. Chances are the familiar faces will be in play in 2022-23. Which statistically favors the Golden Knights.

It’s not just about scoring. There’s a lot more to the game than that.-Daryl Sutter, CGY coach

Since 2017-18, Vegas has a total of 464 points. The Golden Knights have earned more than a third from inside their division. Excluding the now Central Division Coyotes, the Golden Knights have tallied 176 Pacific Division points in 119 games. That’s a hearty .676 winning % against the teams Vegas faces most and in the opening rounds of the playoffs.

Golden Knights fans have now watched how predictable the Pacific division has been for half a decade. LA in and Vegas out was the only real surprise over that period. The landscape will likely stay the same next season.

When the oddsmakers set the lines for next season’s divisional leaders the Golden Knights are likely to be the favorite. Other teams have areas to address as well. Calgary will have to make some big decisions, so will Edmonton, San Jose and Vancouver. LA’s quick climb to the postseason will be interesting if it keeps up, especially if a healthy Vegas team is rolling. In year six no matter what changes have been made the Golden Knights will have a chance to fight for the division and form a path to another conference final. It’s that easy, depending on offseason changes.

VANCOUVER CANUCKS 5 VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS 4 (40-29-5 85 PTS) – OT

By Ken Boehlke

On April 12, 2022

In Game Recaps

Recap: The Golden Knights got off to rough start in Vancouver. The Canucks scored on their first shot after Alex Pietrangelo was called for a tripping minor. Vegas stuck to their game and got some luck late in the opening period. Mattias Janmark fluttered the puck on net and it fortunately bounced off Alec Martinez into the Canucks goal. The game was tied 1-1 heading into the first intermission.

The scoring picked up in the middle frame. Vancouver regained their lead 1:27 into the period and added another two minutes later. Michael Amadio responded quickly for Vegas to get his team within one. Unfortunately, the Canucks took advantage of a 2-on-1 and held a 4-2 lead after 40 minutes of action.

Shea Theodore gave Vegas life by scoring five minutes into the final period and he tied the game with :42 seconds left in the period to send the game to overtime. Vancouver went on to win 5-4 in OT to pick up the extra point.

The Golden Knights record drops to 40-29-5 after falling 5-4 to the Canucks. Vegas picks up one point as their trip continues on Thursday night in Calgary. Puck drop against the Flames is set for 6 PM. (Recap by Jason)

Analysis: The Golden Knights were mightily outplayed in the 2nd period but they were definitely good enough in the 1st and 3rd to overcome it. They were able to push the game to OT due to yet another goal with the net empty, but the OT session was rough. In the end, it comes down to special teams, where VGK didn’t kill and they didn’t capitalize on the PP chances. One point is ok, but they really could have used both. (Recap by Ken)

Upcoming stories from the Vegas Golden Knights vs. Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena.

Pacific North Teams Won’t Make It Easy On Visiting Knights

By Jason Pothier

On April 12, 2022

In Team Ops

(Photo Credit: SinBin.vegas Photographer Brandon Andreasen)

Vegas is arguably on their most important road trip of the season beginning tonight in Vancouver. Three games against three hungry Canadian teams from the Pacific Division. The Canucks are desperately scratching and clawing, the Flames are in 1st place, and the Oiler’s high-powered offense has likely fueled them to the playoffs. There’s no understating, the next set of games are vital to Vegas’ postseason pursuit.

We’re doing whatever it takes to win. Whether it’s killing big penalties or scoring big goals on the power play. We have the ability in our room. It’s just a matter of us going out there and do it. -Bo Horvat, VAN captain

Let’s start with Vancouver. As Golden Knights fans watched last week the Canucks are not a team to take lightly. The team in green and blue are riding a three-game win streak and have no room for mistakes.

We all know how we have to finish this season. There’s no point of putting all of the stress on yourself. Every game is stressful because it’s do or die. We’ll play the right way and give ourselves a chance. It’s right in front of us. -JT Miller, VAN forward

Canucks coach Bruce Boudreau has his players loose and motivated for a chance to shock the conference. If Vegas drops tonight’s game, Vancouver will be only two points behind them. Vegas fans are already scoreboard watching LA, Dallas, and Nashville games, there’s not enough energy to keep tabs on another. That’s why the Golden Knights must play sound defensively, take advantage of second chances and get their star players back to form. Most importantly, leave British Columbia with two points.

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Praise Be To Foley, Vegas Golden Knights Hockey Website

Tag: Vancouver Canucks Page 1 of 6

Pacific Division: Group of 8 With Only 3 Contenders?

VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS 4 VANCOUVER CANUCKS 3 (44-21-6, 94 PTS)

VANCOUVER CANUCKS 5 VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS 1 (16-6-1, 33 PTS)

VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS 5 VANCOUVER CANUCKS 4 (15-4-1, 31 PTS)

Teams With Opposite Starts To The Season Crash Tonight In Vancouver

Bruce Cassidy Not The Only Coach Frustrated With Preseason Defeats

VGK Misses Out On Inexpensive Top-Six Option

VGK Set To Advance Next Postseason Against Weak Pacific

VANCOUVER CANUCKS 5 VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS 4 (40-29-5 85 PTS) – OT

Pacific North Teams Won’t Make It Easy On Visiting Knights

Points To Elimination

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