LAS VEGAS — The “pillow fight” has a winner. The Vegas Golden Knights closed the regular season in style Wednesday night, defeating the Seattle Kraken 4-1 to secure their fifth Pacific Division title in nine seasons. And fittingly, it was Mitch Marner who delivered the defining moment.
With the game tied entering the third period, Marner wasted no time seizing control. Just 1:23 into the final frame, he tipped in a point shot from Brayden McNabb off a faceoff, giving Vegas a 2-1 lead and effectively the division crown. It was Marner’s 24th goal of the season, and easily one of his most important.
The Knights didn’t rely on just one hero.
- Shea Theodore tied the game late in the second
- Reilly Smith added two late goals to put it away
- Carter Hart stopped 22 shots in a steady performance
It was a complete team effort a theme that has defined their late-season surge.
Tortorella Turnaround Complete
The win caps a remarkable run under head coach John Tortorella. Since taking over, Vegas has gone:
- 7-0-1 record
- Climbed from playoff uncertainty
- Captured the division
A stunning turnaround in just weeks. Adding to the moment, captain Mark Stone skated in his 400th game with the franchise a fitting backdrop for a division-clinching win.
Playoff Picture Set
With the victory, Vegas locks in:
- Pacific Division title
- First-round matchup vs. Utah
- Home-ice advantage early in the playoffs
Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers who entered the night just two points back will now finish second.
Final Push Pays Off
The Golden Knights finish the regular season at 39-26-17, riding momentum into the postseason after one of the most dramatic late surges in the NHL this year.nFrom uncertainty… to division champs.
What started as a chaotic race ended with Vegas on top. And now, with confidence surging and the playoffs looming…The Golden Knights aren’t just division winners they’re one of the hottest teams in hockey heading into the postseason.
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Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
