It's amazing what two days can do for a team's psyche. On Saturday, the Vegas Golden Knights only found themselves one point ahead of the Los Angeles Kings in the Pacific Division. That was before the Golden Knights won two straight games and built their lead back to five points.
Now, the team's magic number to clinch the division is eight points. The Kings have six games left, while the Golden Knights have five. Vegas only needs 36.4% of a possible 22 points to clinch the Pacific Division. Suddenly, things have become more clear.
The Golden Knights' magic number to clinch the Pacific Division is now 8.
— SinBin.vegas (@SinBinVegas) April 7, 2025
VGK have 5 games left, LAK have 6. So, of the 22 points up for grabs, VGK need just 36.4%.
Sure, the Kings can pull off a perfect run considering how unstoppable they've been at Crypto.com Arena this season. However, the past two days have helped the division leaders grow their lead. Mind you, this also happened in 2022-23 when the Edmonton Oilers won nine straight games to close the regular season.
Unclench those butt cheeks, Las Vegas.
As Vegas hones in on a potential first round matchup with the St. Louis Blues, they must prepare for the Stanley Cup playoffs. Get everyone on board and knot up any loose ends. It's good to finally have forward depth after a tumultuous summer.
Now, three names will determine the home stretch for the Golden Knights. They play an integral part in the team's success, whether it's in net or on the power play. Therefore, these names must impact the home stretch and prep the team for the playoffs.
1.) Jack Eichel
Surprisingly, Jack Eichel has been quiet in his last four games. He hasn't registered a single point during that time, marking an unusual time for the superstar. Now, he's on pace for 99 points, sitting one shy of the century mark.
What better way to jump over that mark than a blistering five-game streak? Fans will remember his four assists in the opening game against the Colorado Avalanche. Tuesday's game will give him another opportunity to put up a multi-point game. After that are four games against non-playoff teams, giving him another chance to move past the century mark.
2.) Adin Hill
I almost put "Adin Him" in the heading by accident. However, that's who the 28-year-old has been for the Vegas Golden Knights this season. He has a GAA of 2.49 (ninth in the NHL), a save percentage of .906 (tied for 15th), and four shutouts. Yes, he's had a shaky April in three games (GAA of 3.04 and a save percentage of .867). However, he was on the ice for five straight games before Saturday's game against Calgary.
If we see Hill become "Him" in the next five games, that bodes well for Vegas's playoff chances. Suddenly, his gloveside won't become a big problem. He'll handle the fracas up front perfectly fine and become a postseason force again. That's what fans are banking on down the stretch as he takes his starting goaltender mantle. Will he pull through? Stay tuned.
3.) Tomas Hertl
This depends entirely on if he comes back during the regular season. If so, when? The Vegas Golden Knights power play desperately misses him since they haven't scored in the past four games. Having a big presence in the slot has done wonders for the unit this season, pushing them to the top (29.7%).
Having him prep for the playoff stretch will help the group immensely, ending the non-stop passing charade. On top of that, you have another scoring threat at even strength ready to step in. It doesn't matter if it's the slot or near the faceoff circle. Having Tomas Hertl will pay dividends for a team looking to win the division.