Golden Knights Triumph Over the Devils with a Dominant 2-0 Shutout
In a compelling NHL matchup at T-Mobile Arena on March 2, 2025, the Vegas Golden Knights overcame the New Jersey Devils to secure a decisive 2-0 victory. The game was marked by stellar performances from the Knights’ special teams and goaltender Adin Hill, who recorded his third shutout of the season by stopping all 25 shots he faced. This win bolstered Vegas’ impressive home record, now standing at 22-6-3 with a total of 47 points, tied for second in the NHL alongside the Carolina Hurricanes. The Knights, currently leading the Pacific Division, extended their strong run of form, winning five of their last six games and sitting four points ahead of the Edmonton Oilers.
Mark Stone and Noah Hanifin Seal the Deal
The scoring was initiated by Mark Stone, who deftly deflected a shot from Noah Hanifin past New Jersey’s goaltender Jacob Markstrom early in the third period. Stone’s goal not only broke the deadlock but also showcased the Golden Knights’ structured defensive play, which was a key factor in the team’s success. Following Stone’s lead, Hanifin added a second goal midway through the third period, his seventh of the season. Hanifin’s contribution was particularly noteworthy, as he emphasized the importance of the team returning to their identity—a strategy that paid off handsomely in this crucial game. Both goals were assisted by Jack Eichel, marking his 24th multi-point game of the season and setting a new franchise record. Eichel’s leadership and playmaking ability have been instrumental for the Knights this season.
Special Teams Shine Bright
The Golden Knights’ power-play unit has been a standout strength, and this game was no exception. Vegas managed to score two power-play goals, making it the ninth time this season they’ve achieved this feat. Remarkably, this marked the first time the team scored two power-play goals in back-to-back games since Jan. 11. The Knights’ power-play efficiency has been among the best in the league, ranking third with a 28.5% conversion rate. Since mid-January, they have been second only to the Dallas Stars with a power-play success rate of 35.3%. This consistent performance on the power play is a testament to the team’s strategic prowess and their ability to capitalize on opportunities.
Brayden McNabb Reaches a Career Milestone
Defenseman Brayden McNabb achieved a significant milestone in his career by playing in his 800th NHL game. As one of the original players selected by the Golden Knights in the 2017 Expansion Draft, McNabb has been a cornerstone of the team’s defense, appearing in 561 games, the most by any Vegas skater. His contributions extend beyond just playing time; McNabb has registered an impressive 1,894 hits and 1,484 blocked shots, ranking first and third, respectively, among defensemen from his draft class. His 238-game consecutive streak is the 17th-longest active Iron Man streak in the league, highlighting his durability and reliability on the ice. McNabb’s presence and leadership were evident in the way the Knights dominated the defensive zones, ensuring the Devils had few chances to capitalize on their opportunities.
Adin Hill’s Impressive Shutout Streak
Adin Hill’s performance in the net was nothing short of exemplary. This shutout was his third of the season, a personal best for the goaltender, and it came during his third-straight win. Hill’s consistency has been crucial for the Knights, especially after the 4 Nations Face-Off break, where he has recorded back-to-back shutouts. His shutout tally is tied with seven other goaltenders for seventh most in the NHL this season, with Winnipeg’s Connor Hellebuyck leading the pack with six. At 22-10-4, Hill ranks eighth in the NHL in wins and 11th in save percentage (.906) among goalies who have played in 36 games. His goals-against average (2.52) further underscores his reliability and the solid defensive support he has received from his teammates.
Key Moments and Player Injuries
The game also saw some critical moments and player injuries. Devils star Jack Hughes left the game in the third period after a collision with Vegas’ Jack Eichel. Hughes crashed into the boards, raising concerns among the Devils’ coaching staff and fans. The incident highlights the physical nature of the game and the need for players to stay cautious and resilient. Despite the concern, the Golden Knights maintained their composure and focus, demonstrating the resilience and team cohesion that have characterized their recent success. This victory not only solidifies their position in the standings but also boosts their confidence as they head into a crucial stretch of the regular season.
