Golden Knights Overcome Slow Start, Claim Game 1 of Stanley Cup Final
RALEIGH, N.C. — It was a rocky beginning for the Las Vegas Golden Knights, who fell behind just 25 seconds into the Stanley Cup Final. Before the midway point of the first period, they found themselves trailing by two against the fast-paced Carolina Hurricanes, who were riding a wave of support from the home crowd.
But the Golden Knights, experienced and resilient, didn’t let that dampen their spirits. With just under four minutes left in the third period, Tomas Hertl scored off a backhand pass from Colton Sissons, sealing a dramatic 5-4 victory over the Hurricanes on Tuesday night.
“Throughout the playoffs, I’ve said it’s a league that finds a way,” said Las Vegas coach John Tortorella. “And tonight, we found a way.”
Looking forward, Game 2 of the best-of-seven series is set for Thursday in Raleigh. The Golden Knights, aiming to snatch home-ice advantage, are eager to secure their second Cup title within four years.
“Momentum can swing quickly in hockey,” Tortorella remarked. “We want to have that momentum, and there’s no doubt we’re aiming for two points.”
Hertl’s game-winning goal came after an intense back-and-forth match filled with momentum shifts. This performance followed a remarkable playoff journey for Vegas, which included overcoming a 3-0 deficit against Anaheim and a stunning four-game sweep of the Presidents Trophy-winning Colorado Avalanche. That was their seventh consecutive playoff win.
Center William Karlsson, reflecting on the rough start, noted, “Just like against Colorado, there’s always time to turn things around. We hold onto that belief.” His three consecutive goals in the second period helped put the Knights ahead 3-2.
The game was a bit of a rollercoaster for the Knights, who had a delayed start due to a six-day wait for Carolina to finish off Montreal. Defenseman Brayden McNabb emphasized the importance of sticking to the game plan. “We need to keep that puck moving and focus on limiting their opportunities,” he said.
In addition to Hertl, Vegas had goals from Shea Theodore, Ivan Barbashev, and Brett Howden. Carter Hart made 23 saves, including a crucial stop just before Hertl’s decisive goal.
The Hurricanes got off to a flying start with Nikolaj Ehlers netting two goals, the first just 25 seconds into the game. His breakaway later in the period stunned the crowd and gave Carolina a 2-0 lead.
Jordan Staal and Shayne Gostisbehere each scored for the Hurricanes, who were coming off an impressive playoff run. “We had our chances,” Staal said, acknowledging the competitive nature of the game.
The Hurricanes have been on a formidable playoff run, securing 12 wins out of 13 games, advancing to the Cup Final for the first time since 2006. Coach Rod Brind’Amour noted, “This team feels different compared to previous years.”
Meanwhile, the Golden Knights have only gotten stronger as the playoffs progressed, winning 19 of their last 24 games—their trajectory took a surprising turn following Bruce Cassidy’s departure.
Despite both teams having a solid defensive reputation, Tuesday’s high-scoring opener was a testament to their offensive skills. Brind’Amour remarked on the differences from past series, indicating they will need to adapt as they move forward in the Stanley Cup Final.
