Going into the New Year the Golden Knights had a 3rd period goal differential of +18, which was second-best in the NHL. Vegas dominated the final frame in their first 37 games of the season. The Golden Knights allowed only one or fewer 3rd period goals 31 times. 31 out of 37 games! On average VGK was letting in a paltry 0.83 final frame goals in that span. At the same time, the Golden Knights were averaging 1.78 3rd period goals per game. Final frame scoring was a major reason why the 31st franchise was 25-9-3 on New Year’s Eve.
VGK’s 3rd Period Goals Allowed From 10/04 – 12/31
- Allowed 0 Goals: 16
- Allowed 1 Goals: 15
- Allowed 2 Goals: 6
- Allowed 3 or More: 0
As you can see, if an opponent trailed Vegas going into the 3rd period, they weren’t coming. Statistically, the Golden Knights were the much better team on both sides of the ice in the closing 20 minutes. Sadly, things took a turn for the worse in 2025.
VGK’s 3rd Period Goals Allowed From 1/02 – 2/27
- Allowed 0 Goals: 5
- Allowed 1 Goals: 11
- Allowed 2 Goals: 3
- Allowed 3 Goals: 1
- Allowed 4 Goals: 1
** VGK Outscored: 9 times
It was rare for Vegas to be outscored in the final frame in the first half of the season. Their once +18 3rd period goal differential dwindled down to zero from January 1st on. To be fair, the Golden Knights overall goal differential is +31 for the season, which remains the best in the Pacific Division and third in the Western Conference. However, it’s the 3rd period that is becoming the issue. Even if Vegas closes out the game, like they did against Chicago on Thursday, locking down in the waning moments is certainly a concern for coach Bruce Cassidy.
Over the next 10 games, the Golden Knights are facing only two dangerous 3rd period opponents. Next week the Toronto Maple Leafs will visit T-Mobile Arena, followed by the Tampa Bay Lightning later in March. Both clubs have scored at least 60 3rd period goals and have a combined +12 final frame differential. Besides those two adversaries, Vegas should be able to handle the remaining eight matchups. Boston, Buffalo, and Pittsburgh make it a habit by giving up goals in the final 20 minutes.
Since Vegas’ bench boss hinted at his distress about opponents scoring 1.10 goals per 3rd period, we can assume it’s been discussed in the locker room. Hopefully, the Golden Knights address their defensive lapses and return to their high-teen goal differential. There’s no better time to start than tomorrow. Especially, if starting goaltender Adin Hill starts in net.
