The Golden Knights (VGK) have a notable history in playoff Game 1 performances since their inception. Their journey began with a groundbreaking victory in their initial postseason game.
VGK’s First Postseason Game and Series Overview
On April 11, 2018, the Golden Knights secured their first playoff win against the Los Angeles Kings, ending the game 1-0. This victory marked the start of an impressive playoff run, where VGK ended up sweeping the Kings in the series. Coach Gerard Gallant noted the unpredictable nature of playoff games, emphasizing that Game 1s often set a different tone compared to subsequent games.
Game 1 Performance Statistics
Throughout their playoff history, the Golden Knights have participated in 18 Game 1s of seven-game series. Their record stands at:
- 11 wins and 7 losses in total matchups.
- 8-3 record when winning Game 1.
- 4-3 record when losing Game 1.
During the 2023 Stanley Cup playoffs, VGK excelled by winning 3 out of 4 Game 1s, avoiding any elimination games throughout their run.
Detailed Game 1 Results
| Date | Opponent | Result | Series Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04/11/18 | LAK | 1-0 VGK* | Won Series |
| 04/26/18 | SJS | 7-0 VGK* | Won Series |
| 05/12/18 | WPG | 4-2 WPG* | Lost Series |
| 05/28/18 | WAS | 6-4 VGK | Won Series |
| 04/10/19 | SJS | 5-2 SJS | Lost Series |
| 04/22/24 | DAL | 4-3 VGK | Pending |
General Game 1 Statistics in VGK History
The Golden Knights’ Game 1 averages reveal a competitive edge:
- Goals Scored Per Game: 3.22
- Goals Allowed Per Game: 2.44
- Shots Per Game: 30.6
- Shots Allowed Per Game: 30.5
- Power Play Opportunities Per Game: 3.44
- Penalty Kills Per Game: 2.77
- Power Play Goals Per Game: 0.88
- Power Play Goals Allowed Per Game: 0.55
- Penalty Minutes Taken Per Game: 10.3
- Penalties Committed Per Game: 3.55
Looking Ahead to Future Playoffs
After a coaching change and missing the postseason, VGK faced a challenging start in the 2023 playoffs, losing Game 1 to the Winnipeg Jets 5-1. However, they bounced back confidently, securing victories in their remaining series games. VGK fans remain optimistic about future playoff performances, knowing that a difficult Game 1 does not determine the series outcome.
