Vegas Golden Knights Looks to Extend Win Streak on New Year’s Eve
Montreal Canadiens vs. Vegas Golden Knights: New Year’s Eve Showdown in Sin City
The Montreal Canadiens (16-17-3, 35 points) are set to face the Vegas Golden Knights (25-8-3, 53 points) on New Year’s Eve Day, with the game taking place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This Eastern Conference vs. Western Conference matchup brings together two teams with very different trajectories. The Canadiens are riding a strong run of form, having secured five wins in their last six games, including a 5-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday night. On the other hand, the Golden Knights have been dominant, extending their win streak to six games, including a 3-0 win over the Calgary Flames on Sunday.
As 2024 wraps up, Montreal looks to continue their surge up the standings, while Vegas will aim to maintain their stronghold at the top of the Pacific Division. This game is crucial for both teams as they look to solidify their respective positions heading into the new year.
Montreal Canadiens: Overcoming Defensive Struggles
The Montreal Canadiens have had a solid offensive showing this season but have struggled to keep the puck out of their own net. With a goals-for average of 3.0 (19th in the NHL) and a goals-against average of 3.5 (29th in the NHL), the Canadiens are caught in a constant battle to outscore their defensive lapses. Montreal’s defensive issues have been compounded by an inability to generate shots, averaging just 24.8 shots per game (32nd in the league). However, they’ve been able to make up for it through a solid penalty kill, ranking 10th in the league with an 82.1% success rate.
Cole Caufield, leading Montreal with 18 goals, remains their top scoring threat, followed closely by Nick Suzuki (11 goals, 24 assists), who also leads the team in points with 35. The Canadiens’ balanced offense, featuring players like Lane Hutson (24 assists, 26 points) and Jake Evans (plus/minus +5), will need to continue producing as they face off against a powerful Vegas team.
In goal, Samuel Montembeault (13-14-2, 2.90 GAA, .901 SV%) will have his work cut out for him, especially with Montreal’s leaky defense. The Canadiens’ defensive struggles will be under heavy scrutiny as they face a high-powered offense like Vegas.
Vegas Golden Knights: Dominant Attack and Steady Defense
The Vegas Golden Knights have been a juggernaut this season, with a 3.4 goals-for average (6th in the NHL) and a 2.9 goals-against average (14th in the NHL). Their offensive depth is a key factor in their success, with Jack Eichel leading the charge with 48 points (10 goals, 38 assists). Alongside him, Ivan Barbashev (15 goals) and Brett Howden (15 goals) provide scoring support, while Mark Stone adds 8 goals and 22 assists for 30 points.
Vegas is also strong on the special teams front, boasting the 3rd-ranked power play (27.3%) and a middle-of-the-pack penalty kill at 79.7%. They will look to exploit Montreal’s struggles with discipline and capitalize on their opportunities with the man advantage.
On the defensive side, Shea Theodore and Brayden McNabb anchor the blue line. Theodore has contributed 26 assists, while McNabb leads the team with a +22 plus/minus rating, signaling the team’s overall defensive strength.
In goal, Adin Hill (16-5-2, 2.63 GAA, .904 SV%) has been a steady presence for the Golden Knights, and his performance will be crucial in shutting down the Canadiens’ high-powered attack. Vegas’ defense has been above average, and Hill will be looking to continue his solid play as he faces a Montreal team that can score in bunches.
Conclusion
Vegas comes into this game as the clear favorite, especially with their recent form and home-ice advantage. While Montreal has been impressive recently, their defensive struggles will likely be too much to overcome against a dynamic team like the Golden Knights.
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