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Golden Knights Clash with Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena

As the Vegas Golden Knights prepare to face off against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena, fans are eager to see if their team can bounce back from recent performances. The upcoming game, scheduled for March 5th, will be a test of resilience for the Golden Knights who have had a mix of fortunes in their past few games.


Mar 19, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Shea Theodore (27) skates with the puck during the first period against the Columbus Blue Jackets at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports

Analyzing their recent outings, the Golden Knights have shown both promise and areas needing improvement. In their last three games, they've recorded one win and two losses. The victory was a commanding shutout against the San Jose Sharks with a scoreline of 4-0 where they displayed solid defense and goaltending, saving all 29 shots faced while capitalizing on powerplay opportunities.


However, in subsequent matches against formidable opponents like the Toronto Maple Leafs and Nashville Predators, Vegas struggled to maintain that momentum. They were outscored by Toronto 7-3 despite winning more faceoffs and recording similar hit counts. Against Nashville, they managed to net three goals but ultimately fell short as they conceded five.


Mar 19, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Brayden McNabb (3) skates during the first period against the Columbus Blue Jackets at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports

One key trend is that when Vegas wins faceoffs and capitalizes on powerplays as seen in their win over San Jose (faceoff win percentage of 56 percent), they tend to control the game better. Conversely, when these aspects falter alongside higher penalty minutes like in their loss to Nashville (penalty minutes totaling eight), it correlates with less favorable outcomes.


The venue could play an influential role; playing away at Nationwide Arena may present additional challenges for Vegas. However, if they can replicate the disciplined play shown in San Jose while improving on converting scoring chances and minimizing penalties taken during even-strength play – there's potential for success.


Mar 19, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets center Liam Foudy (19) attempts to score a goal against Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Jiri Patera (30) during the first period at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports

Fans can catch this intriguing matchup live on ESPN+ or BSOH networks or follow along via SCRIPPS TV broadcasts. The puck drops at midnight UTC on March 5th – don't miss what promises to be an exciting contest!

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