Golden Knights’ defensive surge offset offensive deficiencies – Las Vegas Sun News

The Vegas Golden Knights had little to nothing to do with holding the Edmonton Oilers scoreless in the third period.

They recorded two shots in the third period, both of which came in the first three minutes of the period. From 4:48 p.m. until the end of the game, Vegas was on defense.

The Oilers’ move to put Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl on the same line left the Golden Knights in trouble, falling 16-2. Edmonton put the puck in the net in the final 20 minutes as often as Vegas did in the game.

But 28 saves from Adin Hill and a much-improved defense propelled the Golden Knights past the Oilers 1-0. Vegas’ only goal was scored by Ivan Barbashev in the first period.

It’s a huge defensive turnaround for Vegas after a 6-0 loss to Utah Hockey Club three days ago.

“It just didn’t go well,” Barbashev said of the Golden Knights’ loss to Utah. “We did a really good job in the third period (of the Utah game). We were just trying to prepare for the next game and that’s what we did.”

The Golden Knights’ offense faltered in the third period against the Oilers, but that didn’t affect their defense.

Adjustments were made on defense to counter two of the league’s strongest offensive players, forcing them to the “edge” and limiting their opportunities.

Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy said the team focused on defensive fundamentals in practice after the loss to Utah on Monday and Tuesday.

“We worked on some basic competition and D-zone batting details and reinforced some habits that we weren’t able to implement,” Cassidy said. “That’s difficult when you’re skating in the morning. We tried a few times in very small situations, but even then it was difficult to do it with this strength of team.”

“A quick video review of Edmonton today and I think we understand how they can cause offense.”

While the Vegas skaters followed a set defensive plan, Hill was on his head in the third period. Edmonton could have set up camp in the Golden Knights zone, but Hill didn’t budge.

The Golden Knights also had no special teams to work with as there were no penalties for either team. It is the first time in 80 years that there were no penalty minutes in a game where there was one goal or less.

“I feel good about my game right now,” Hill said. “I just stay in my net and more on defense. I just catch my edges with my feet more often and just make the game easier.”

With a dominant performance just hours before the NHL is set to announce its rosters for the four-nation clash in February, Hill may have just secured a spot with Canada. He’s expected to feature in the three-goalie rotation and hopes that can become a reality.

“I hope I make the team. It would be a dream come true,” Hill said. “You grow up hoping that one day you’ll wear that sweater. We’ll see what happens tomorrow.”

Although Vegas’ offensive performance wasn’t what they would have liked, it will be considered a win due to the strength and improvement of their defense.

“We would have liked to generate more offense, but defensively we were solid and Hilly (Adin Hill) was there when we needed him,” Cassidy said.