Reilly Smith scored with less than four minutes remaining as the Vegas Golden Knights defeated the Dallas Stars 3-2 on Sunday night. The result halted Vegas’ recent struggles and prevented Dallas from securing a playoff berth.
The game remained tight throughout, with both teams trading momentum and limited scoring chances. Vegas created more opportunities overall and finished with a clear edge in shots. Dallas, however, stayed within reach until the final minutes before Smith’s goal settled the outcome.
The win ended a three-game losing streak for Vegas and marked just its third win in the last nine games. Dallas dropped its third game in four outings but remains firmly positioned near the top of the Western Conference standings.
Late Goal Breaks Deadlock
Smith’s goal came at 16:22 of the third period after a prolonged stretch of play without a stoppage. Mitch Marner carried the puck into the offensive zone and released a shot from the high slot. The puck deflected off multiple defenders and landed near Smith, who finished from close range past goaltender Casey DeSmith.
The sequence reflected sustained pressure from Vegas during the closing minutes. The Golden Knights controlled possession and forced Dallas to defend for extended shifts. That pressure eventually created the loose puck that led to the deciding goal.
Adin Hill made 13 saves for Vegas and held the lead through the final minutes. Dallas could not generate a clear scoring chance after falling behind.
Early Chances And First-Period Lead
Vegas opened the scoring early in the first period through Brayden McNabb. He carried the puck out of his own zone, split two defenders, and beat DeSmith with a low shot to the glove side at 4:01.
The goal gave Vegas early momentum and forced Dallas to adjust its approach. The Stars responded by tightening their defensive structure and limiting odd-man rushes.
Dallas gradually found its footing and began to control play in stretches. The team generated more zone time as the period progressed but could not equalize before the intermission.
Second Period Swings Momentum
The game shifted in the second period as both teams found ways to score. Dallas tied the game on a power play when Wyatt Johnston converted from the slot at 10:55. The goal marked his 23rd power-play tally of the season, setting a franchise record.
Johnston’s goal also extended his strong season and highlighted Dallas’ effectiveness with the man advantage. The Stars used quick puck movement to open space and create a clear shooting lane.
Dallas then took the lead later in the period when Justin Hryckowian scored at 16:48. The sequence followed sustained pressure in the offensive zone, with the Stars capitalizing on a breakdown in Vegas’ coverage.
Vegas responded quickly on its own power play. Ivan Barbashev tied the game at 2 with a goal from a sharp angle near the net. He finished a pass from Brett Howden after Dallas was penalized for slashing.
The quick exchange of goals kept the game level heading into the third period and set up a close finish.
Vegas Controls Final Stretch
The third period featured tighter play, with both teams limiting high-quality chances. Vegas held an advantage in shot attempts and controlled more possession time.
Dallas relied on structured defense and goaltending to stay in the game. DeSmith made several key stops and finished with 30 saves, helping keep the score tied deep into the period.
However, the Stars struggled to generate consistent offense late. Vegas maintained pressure and kept the puck in the offensive zone for extended stretches.
That pressure led directly to Smith’s goal. The extended shift without a whistle allowed Vegas to cycle the puck and create confusion in Dallas’ defensive coverage.
Statistical Edge And Key Performances
Vegas outshot Dallas 33-15, reflecting its control of play across much of the game. The Golden Knights created more sustained offensive sequences and forced Dallas to defend for longer periods.
Hill faced fewer shots but made the necessary saves to secure the result. His performance remained steady and efficient, particularly in the final minutes.
For Dallas, Johnston stood out with his record-setting power-play goal. Hryckowian also contributed with a key second-period goal, while Sam Steel added two assists.
Despite those contributions, Dallas could not match Vegas’ overall pace and offensive pressure.
Playoff Implications
The loss delays Dallas’ opportunity to clinch a playoff spot. The Stars remain near the top of the Western Conference but have shown some inconsistency in recent games.
Vegas, meanwhile, gains momentum after a difficult stretch. The team has struggled to find consistency but showed improved execution and control in this game.
The result may help stabilize Vegas as it approaches the final portion of the season. Stronger defensive structure and sustained offensive pressure will remain key factors moving forward.
Up Next
Vegas travels to Winnipeg on Tuesday for its next game. Dallas returns home to face the New Jersey Devils as it continues its push toward securing a playoff berth.