You know those times when you're in a funk and you don't know what to do? Sure, the Vegas Golden Knights technically can't say that since they were 2-0-2 entering Thursday's game against the Boston Bruins. However, the Golden Knights got a complete offensive game.
Sure, they didn't get the first goal in the game. But does that matter in the grand scheme? Sure, the defensive group didn't do much to give Akira Schmid a case to stick around. But who's counting the Bruins' goals?
You dominated Jeremy Swayman and made him uncomfortable all night. You got two points against a tough Eastern Conference team, bumping that record up to 3-0-2. That deserves an award, right?
Aside from the goals, the Golden Knights got plenty of production from their big names. That included Mark Stone (three assists) and Mitch Marner (two assists), turning in a complete offensive game for the Golden Knights. It's the type of promising goal-scoring displays that the team needed after an exhausting three-game trip. Could it lead to another solid start for Bruce Cassidy and company?
What I liked from the Vegas Golden Knights against the Boston Bruins
First, this was an offensive breakout that the Golden Knights desperately needed. Golden Knights fans saw the usual faces put up goals, ranging from Pavel Dorofeyev to Tomas Hertl to Jack Eichel (and his well-earned contract extension). However, Cole Reinhardt scored his first goal of the season. Having your fourth line produce when called upon helps in many ways, specifically when you're in a barnburner.
On top of that, William Karlsson got a goal on both sides of the special teams coin. He got a short-handed goal to close out the second period. The Original Misfit followed that up with a power play goal in the third period, which was the game-winner. Overall, it was a strong offensive showing for the Golden Knights on even strength and special teams, who've now won two straight games.
Speaking of special teams, the Golden Knights got a strong effort here. They got two power play goals and killed off a key penalty in the third period. It was the deciding factor in a game that contained plenty of goals on both sides, where Vegas won against a solid Boston Bruins team.
Some alarming trends are still bugging the Golden Knights, though
On the surface, Akira Schmid struggled in net. He let in some bad goals that kept the Bruins hanging around, stopping 19 of 24 shots. However, the defensive group didn't take away shooting lanes or scoring opportunities as needed.
Yes, it's still early in the season and the group still has things to figure out. However, Adin Hill has also faced similar problems during the season's start, leaving him vulnerable. The group must make quick adjustments before the season ramps up. Otherwise, they're cooked against other strong teams.
On that note, you can't let the opponent back into the game like this. The Golden Knights had their feet on Boston's throat in the third period. Clamp down and don't get inside your own head. This is Pacific Northwest baseball we're playing here.
Finally, the Golden Knights had to play from behind to win again. Sure, everyone loves a good comeback. But, how long can you keep doing the whole act? Getting the game's first goal is paramount for Vegas. That way you can get the proverbial monkey off your back.