You don't want to back a scared dog into a corner. Otherwise, they'll bite and injure you. That's the conventional wisdom that even Vegas Golden Knights fans know, especially when their own team was backed into a corner.
Now? The team is rolling and enters Monday with the Pacific Division lead. Oh, did I mention that the Golden Knights already clinched a playoff spot? For everything that went wrong in the 2025-26 season, getting into the postseason is certainly a good consolation prize.
However, they can't underestimate their opponents on Monday in the Winnipeg Jets. They're still in the playoff hunt despite being a long shot to make the postseason. They have 82 points and have won seven of their last 10 games, making them a threat to make noise.
As mentioned, it's unwise to back a scared dog into a corner. Otherwise, they'll bite. I mean, Winnipeg has the Hart Memorial Trophy winner, Connor Hellebuyck. That should be enough to keep the Golden Knights on their heels, should he get the start.
But that's not the only thing that the Golden Knights should watch out for. What if *GASP* Adin Hill starts again instead of the redhot Carter Hart? That's one of the things that fans must worry about. But it's much more than worrying about a floundering goaltender.
What else could trip up the Vegas Golden Knights against the Winnipeg Jets on Monday?
Let's take a look at Mark Scheifele for a second. The superstar center has three goals and 13 assists in his last nine games. He's going to be one player who will cause trouble for the Golden Knights on Monday. That's especially true if Hill gets the nod in net for Monday's game.
Keep an eye on Scheifele as the game progresses, for he can do damage against the Golden Knights. He has 10 goals and 11 assists in his career against Vegas, making him a pain the arse. But he's not the only player that could cause problems.
Let's say that Hellebuyck gets the start on Monday. His career GAA (2.91) might not be appetizing. However, his career save percentage (.913) is much better. That will be a massive problem for a Golden Knights team that has grown much more aggressive under John Tortorella.
Can they crack him with Tortorella's line-loading and break the Hart Memorial Trophy winner? Stay tuned. But if Hellebuyck gets the start, life becomes much harder for a Golden Knights team trying to clinch the Pacific Division.
Don't sleep on this game, Golden Knights fans. The Jets still have life in the playoff race and need all the help they can get. That could start at Vegas's expense, with an upset shaking up their Pacific Division chances. Remember, don't back a scared dog into a corner.