Golden Knights lived on their penalty kill before the Ducks finally made them pay

TL;DR

The Golden Knights' penalty kill faltered as the Ducks scored two power-play goals, leading to a 4-3 victory that tied their playoff series at two games each. Game 5 is set for Tuesday in Las Vegas.

Key points

Golden Knights' penalty kill streak ended at 21 games
Ducks scored two power-play goals in Game 4
Game 5 set for Tuesday in Las Vegas
Golden Knights committed 4.00 penalties per game in playoffs

Mentioned in this story

John Tortorella

Golden KnightsDucks

LAS VEGAS (AP) — The Golden Knights' penalty kill, backed by goalie Carter Hart's stellar play, has been so good that Vegas has been able to get away with committing more penalties than usual. That is, until Sunday night when the Anaheim Ducks scored two power-play goals to win 4-3 and even the second-round NHL playoffs series at two games apiece. Game 5 is Tuesday in Las Vegas (9:30 p.m. EDT, ESPN), and whether the Ducks found something in Game 4 or if it was a momentary blip for the Golden Knights will go a long way in determining which team advances to the Western Conference final. More than getting back to their penalty kill — which had its streak of 21 straight ended in that game — the Golden Knights will have to try to figure out a way to cut down on the number penalties while maintaining their aggressiveness. Vegas was second in the league in the regular season in committing 3.12 penalties per game, a hair behind New Jersey's 3.10. But the Golden Knights are up to 4.00 average in the playoffs, though that is the third fewest in the league. “We've obviously got to stay more disciplined, not wanting to give them momentum off that or give them opportunities on the power play,” Vegas forward Brett Howden said. “They obviously have a good power play, so I think our PK's done a really good job, but no sense in keep giving them those opportunities.” The Ducks took advantage of their chances on Sunday. Anaheim had converted 8 of 16 power plays in their first-round, six-game elimination of Edmonton. But the Ducks were 0 of 11 against Vegas before broke through with a goal in the first period. converted with the man advantage late in the second period for a 3-2 lead. Golden Knights coach John Tortorella pointed to that as the critical juncture in the game. “Once you score one, it kind of changes the confidence of a power play,” Killorn said. “You're getting good chances (but) it's not going your way. But to see one go in, I think for us, was kind of a momentum builder and it gives you confidence.” Killorn's shot just got by Hart, who had a rare down game this postseason. Hart was in a similar situation in the opening-round series against Utah, allowing four goals in 12 shots in a Game 3 loss to the . Hart responded by winning five of his next six starts. “He's been terrific,” Tortorella said Monday. “I don't expect anything different tomorrow.”

Q&A

What was the outcome of the Golden Knights vs. Ducks Game 4?

The Ducks won Game 4 against the Golden Knights 4-3, tying the playoff series at two games each.

How did the Ducks capitalize on the Golden Knights' penalties?

The Ducks scored two power-play goals in Game 4, taking advantage of the Golden Knights' increased penalties.

What changes do the Golden Knights need to make after Game 4?

The Golden Knights need to reduce penalties while maintaining their aggressive play to avoid giving the Ducks more power-play opportunities.

When is Game 5 of the Golden Knights vs. Ducks series?

Game 5 is scheduled for Tuesday at 9:30 p.m. EDT in Las Vegas.