Ever since I moved to Las Vegas, I always found the term “calling in” kind of amusing, especially when it represents calling work to tell them you won’t be able to make it in that day. If you couldn’t show up for work, wouldn’t you be “calling out?”
Last night, the VGK called in or out; they didn’t showed up for their game in Minnesota. It was over early, as the Wild dominated play in all three periods. The first period was the hardest to watch. The VGK were out-skated and out-hustled, and were out-shot 19-8. Minnesota was averaging 30 shots for a game, which ranks them in 26th place in average shots. Obviously, 19 shots in the first period alone put them way above their average.
Last night, the game was pretty much over shortly after the opening faceoff. The VGK left their energy back in Winnipeg in a game took a lot out of them. As I said in my last blog, their next two games were going to be tough. Add to it that Minnesota has only lost one game at home in the last two months.
It’s difficult to find fault with this team. They’ve spoiled us by consistently being the quicker team on the ice, no matter who they’re playing, and they always play with heart and determination. Last night, we didn’t see any of what we have gotten used to.
As expected Subban was in nets. With three games in four nights (actually, 3-1/2 days, as Sundays game is a 9:30 a.m. start Pacific Time), Fleury was rested; he’s started the last FIVE games for Vegas. Look for Fleury to return to the nets for their game in Washington.
Two things are worth mentioning about the game. One, the VGK’s power-play unit scored two PPG last night and has 10 PPG in their last seven games. And two, Erik Haula has scored a goal in five straight games and has earned at least a point in eight; those 11 points include 5 goals and 6 assists. Haula’s goal gives him 20 for the year, a career high; it also ranks the VGK as one of only three teams in the league with three different players with 20 goals or more: William Karlsson (27), James Neal (22), and Erik Haula (20). The other 2 teams are the Dallas Stars and the Boston Bruins.
The VGK penalty-killing unit entered the game having killed off 42 of 44 power-play chances, which is over 95%. Last night was an off night all around, as that unit surrendered two power-play goals in four attempts.
This difficult road schedule and continues with only one day off before they hit the ice against the Washington Capitals Sunday at 12:30 p.m., which for the VGK players will feel like a 9:30 a.m. start.
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