Golden Knights not worried as pivotal Game Five against Ducks looms

The captain was ruled out prior to morning skate, as was defenseman Jeremy Lauzon. The recall of Braeden Bowman from the Henderson Silver Knights suggests that the team is preparing for options in the event Stone’s latest injury carries long-term implications. It is not like the Golden Knights are in serious trouble without Stone, but the difficult in replacing a player that does so many things on the ice creates something of a disadvantage for Vegas going forward.

“Obviously, that's a big piece, but it's kind of that next-man-up mentality,” Golden Knights forward Brett Howden said on Monday. “Having Stone in the lineup is a huge asset to us.”

Been here before

Game Five has always been a pivotal game that all but decides a series for the Golden Knights.

The Golden Knights have been tested in Game Fives before, facing difficult tests like the Colorado Avalanche in 2021 and the Edmonton Oilers in 2023. However, both instances saw the Golden Knights pull out victories that ultimately allowed them to close out the series in Game Six. Being able to put the pressure on the opposing team has proven to be an advantage Vegas is keen on exploiting, and that will have to be the case once again.

“I think the energy is going to be high,” said Tortorella prior to morning skate.

“This is where the players like to play in these type of games, where it's scrutinized, it's more high stakes. Now, as far as basically a three game series, I don't think there'll be any problem with energy or mental fatigue or anything like that.”

Experience factor

Game Five against Utah followed what was the story of the series, with the Golden Knights beating the younger Mammoth through their experience.

Despite going down in the third period, Vegas remained strong and ultimately broke through with a Pavel Dorofeyev goal in the final minute. Then, the Golden Knights weathered the storm through overtime and a penalty kill in double overtime for Howden’s shorthanded game-winner. They followed up with a clinical elimination game performance in Game Six, and the Golden Knights are now in the position where they can push this series against Anaheim down a similar route.

“It's an experienced group. I think it's a group that self assesses very well,” said Tortorella. “I'm not sure what the results going to be tonight, but our team is ready.”