The Vegas Golden Knights’ hopes of a repeat were dashed as they succumbed to a 2-1 defeat against the Dallas Stars in Game 7. Dallas completed an impressive series comeback, overturning a 0-2 deficit to clinch the series 4-3. For the Stars, this victory held particular significance as they had suffered elimination on the same ice last year in the Western Conference Finals against Vegas.
Coaches weighed in on the intense matchup:
A valiant effort and incredible series 🤝 @GoldenKnights pic.twitter.com/2WKuYlBPgb
— z – Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) May 6, 2024
“We were really eager to secure this series win. It was our time,” expressed Stars coach Pete DeBoer. “Throughout the season, we believed we did everything right to claim the first seed, only to face a formidable opponent like Vegas. Honestly, I think they’ve strengthened their lineup compared to last year. Overcoming the adversity of trailing 2-0 speaks volumes about our team’s resilience.”
Reflecting on the game, Vegas coach Bruce Cassidy remarked, “Coaches are always striving for that next level of performance. We glimpsed our potential at times, as did Dallas. Neither team can claim complete dominance throughout the series or perform at their peak consistently. Personally, I felt Game 6 was our strongest showing, and I hoped we could carry that momentum into today, but unfortunately, it didn’t materialize.”
The game saw both teams trading goals:
RADEK'S BACK AND WE'RE BACK IN FRONT! pic.twitter.com/tTPQPuh7FC
— z – Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) May 6, 2024
Dallas took the lead 1-0 at 14:34 of the first period courtesy of Wyatt Johnston, who capitalized on a clearing attempt by Shea Theodore to score from the high slot. This goal came shortly after Vegas forward Jonathan Marchessault narrowly missed an opportunity to equalize, hitting the post with an open net.
Johnston shared his perspective, saying, “I’m focused on contributing in any way possible to help the team succeed. Whether it’s on the penalty kill, blocking shots, or simply clearing the puck, I’m committed to doing my part. Winning a series requires collective effort.”
What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas… except for me.
Thank you for all the memories, @GoldenKnights.
— The Stanley Cup (@StanleyCup) May 6, 2024
Vegas leveled the score at 1-1 during the second period when Brett Howden tapped in a pass from Michael Amadio at the left post at 15:25.
No matter what happens, this will always be there. pic.twitter.com/tdp2zLACXP
— SinBin.vegas (@SinBinVegas) May 6, 2024
Radek Faksa restored Dallas’ lead early in the third period, scoring 44 seconds in with a backhand deflection off Alec Martinez’s stick, assisted by Craig Smith.
Goalkeepers Jake Oettinger and Adin Hill both made 22 saves in a tightly contested game. Dallas now advances to face the Colorado Avalanche in the second round of the playoffs.
Fan reactions poured in following the Golden Knights’ elimination, highlighting the disappointment among supporters.
Leave a Reply