Golden Knights Edge Blackhawks in High-Energy 4-3 Win at T-Mobile Arena
LAS VEGAS - The Vegas Golden Knights held off a late push from the Chicago Blackhawks to grab a 4-3 win Tuesday night at T-Mobile Arena, giving the home crowd another reason to raise their sticks in celebration.
It was a night full of pace, pressure, and playoff-style energy - even in December - as Vegas leaned on a balanced attack and timely plays across all three zones to secure the W.
Mark Stone set the tone early, doing what he does best: controlling the puck with poise and drawing defenders like a magnet. With Chicago’s Connor Bedard in pursuit, Stone skated with purpose, dictating tempo and forcing the Blackhawks to defend on their heels. Bedard, the rookie phenom, had his moments - but Stone’s veteran savvy gave Vegas the edge in those one-on-one battles.
Brett Howden brought the grit. The Golden Knights center was relentless on the forecheck, chasing down loose pucks and creating second-chance opportunities. It’s the kind of work that doesn’t always show up on the scoresheet, but it’s crucial in tight games like this one - especially against a young, fast team like Chicago.
On the back end, Ben Hutton kept things simple and effective. His dump-in during a second-period shift might seem routine, but it was part of a smart, structured approach that helped Vegas maintain offensive zone time. Those little decisions - choosing when to press and when to reset - add up over 60 minutes.
Brandon Saad, now wearing the Golden Knights sweater, made his presence felt against his former team. Skating with purpose toward the net, Saad drew defenders and opened up space for his linemates. His north-south game continues to be a solid fit in Vegas’ system.
And then there’s Mitch Marner. The dynamic winger was flying through the neutral zone, carrying the puck with confidence and creating chances off the rush.
His ability to shift gears and find seams in the defense gave the Blackhawks problems all night. When Marner’s in rhythm like that, he’s a difference-maker - plain and simple.
After the final horn, the Golden Knights gathered at center ice and raised their sticks to the fans - a well-earned salute after a hard-fought win. The chemistry is building, the effort is there, and if Tuesday night is any indication, Vegas is starting to find its stride as the season rolls on.
This one had the energy of a playoff preview - and the Golden Knights looked ready for the moment.