The Western Conference semifinal kicks off in Las Vegas, where the Golden Knights host the Ducks after a 3‑0 regular‑season sweep. Despite Anaheim’s youth‑laden surge—highlighted by Cutter Gauthier’s series‑clinching goal—the veteran‑heavy Knights hold a historic 12‑7 edge in opening games. Betting markets favor Vegas to seize the first win.

Anaheim entered the series on a high, upsetting Edmonton and posting a 5‑2 victory in Game 6. Young defenseman Jackson LaCombe matched a Ducks playoff record with nine points, while Chris Kreider edged toward a 50‑goal milestone. Yet goaltender Lukas Dostal’s sub‑.880 save percentage in the Oilers round raises doubts against a deeper Vegas roster.

Vegas counters with seasoned scorers: Jack Eichel tallied a goal and eight assists, tying the franchise mark for assists in a playoff series, and Brett Howden seeks a fourth straight playoff goal. The Knights have recorded three third‑period comebacks in the previous round, a feat matched only by Dallas in 2025. With a 66‑46 playoff record, Vegas is positioned to protect home ice and take the series lead.