A Strong Start to the Season
The Vegas Golden Knights kicked off their 2024-25 season in thrilling fashion, defeating the Colorado Avalanche 8-4 at T-Mobile Arena. In front of a roaring crowd of 18,388 fans, the Golden Knights secured their sixth consecutive season-opening victory, demonstrating their dominance from the start. Ivan Barbashev was the standout of the night, recording two goals and two assists, propelling his team to victory and securing an impressive four-point game.
Back-and-Forth Action in the First Period
The Avalanche struck first, with Mikko Rantanen scoring midway through the first period. However, Victor Olofsson quickly responded, tying the game just 27 seconds later with a well-placed wrist shot. Barbashev then gave Vegas the lead, followed by Mark Stone’s quick goal to end the period at 3-1, showing the team’s offensive depth early on.
Building the Lead in the Second Period
The action continued in the second period, with Zach Whitecloud extending Vegas’ lead to 4-2. Although the Avalanche cut the gap again, Olofsson, in his Golden Knights debut, scored his second goal, giving Vegas a 5-3 advantage heading into the third period.
Sealing the Deal
Despite a hat trick from Rantanen that momentarily brought the Avalanche within one, Stone and Barbashev capitalized on power-play opportunities to extend the lead. Brett Howden’s empty-net goal in the final seconds secured the 8-4 victory.
Top Performers Shine
- Ivan Barbashev: Two goals, two assists, leading the offensive charge.
- Jack Eichel: Set a franchise record with four assists, showcasing his playmaking ability.
- Mark Stone: Continued his leadership role with two goals and an assist.
- Victor Olofsson: Scored twice in his debut, joining elite company for multi-goal debuts in franchise history.
- Shea Theodore: Contributed three assists, including one on Olofsson’s game-winning goal.
Historical Achievements and Next Matchup
The victory not only extended Vegas’ winning streak in season openers but also marked several individual achievements. Eichel’s four-assist night tied him with past NHL stars for the most assists in a season opener since 2002. Stone’s performance solidified his place as the franchise leader in points in season-opening games, with a total of 13 points in six such games.
The Golden Knights now turn their focus to the St. Louis Blues, whom they face next at T-Mobile Arena. Fans can watch the game on Vegas 34, KnightTime+, or listen live on FOX Sports Las Vegas 98.9/1340.
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