Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Adin Hill (33) gives up a goal to Minnesota Wild left wing Kirill Kaprizov (not shown) during the first period of Game 3 of a first-round NHL hockey playoff series Thursday, April 24, 2025, in St. Paul, Minn. Photo by: Abbie Parr / Associated Press
Thursday, April 24, 2025 | 9:12 p.m.
Wild Prevails Over Golden Knights in Game 3 of NHL Playoffs
In a decisive Game 3 held at Xcel Energy Center, the Minnesota Wild defeated the Vegas Golden Knights with a score of 5-2, showcasing their strength in this first-round playoff series. With this victory, the Wild now lead the series 2-1.
Key Players and Performances
Kicking off the night, Kirill Kaprizov made a substantial impact with two power-play goals, helping to propel his team forward. Matt Boldy, evident in his impressive form, scored for the third consecutive game, while Marco Rossi celebrated his first career postseason goal. Marcus Foligno capped off the scoring with an empty-net goal.
The Wild’s goaltender Filip Gustavsson had a standout performance, denying numerous attempts and recording 30 saves throughout the game, maintaining his team’s momentum from their previous road victory.
Series Summary
Boldy and Kaprizov’s combined prowess is notable, as they currently lead the NHL with a total of four goals this postseason, contributing to 13 points collectively. In contrast, the Golden Knights’ top line, featuring Ivan Barbashev, Jack Eichel, and Mark Stone, has yet to register a goal in the series.
Scoring Breakdown
The game’s scoring unfolded as follows:
- First Period:
- Alex Pietrangelo (Vegas) – Long slap shot goal after a 2-0 deficit.
- Later Goals:
- Reilly Smith (Vegas) – Short-handed goal with 8:26 left in the match.
Looking Ahead
The Golden Knights will aim to regroup and find answers as they prepare for Game 4, scheduled for Saturday in Minnesota. The urgency to perform will be crucial as they seek to even the series.