Golden Knights vs Avalanche Picks and Prediction – 11/28/2024

The Vegas Golden Knights (14-6-2, 1st in Pacific) face off against the Colorado Avalanche (12-10-0, 4th in Central) in what promises to be an intense matchup at Ball Arena. Vegas is riding high after a thrilling 5-4 shootout win over Philadelphia, while Colorado looks to bounce back following a humbling 8-2 defeat against Tampa Bay. Hit the ice running with our NHL picks.

Vegas has been dominant offensively, ranking second in goals scored with 85 and leading the league in assists with 148. Jack Eichel is a standout with 8 goals and 26 assists, complemented by Ivan Barbashev’s balanced contributions of 10 goals and 14 assists. On special teams, Vegas boasts an efficient 30.9% power-play conversion rate, but the penalty kill lags at 76.6%. Defensive consistency is a concern, with 68 goals against placing them 20th in the league. Adin Hill has struggled in net with a .887 save percentage and a 2.99 goals-against average, highlighting potential vulnerabilities in the crease.

Defensively, Vegas will look to tighten up despite injuries to William Karlsson and Alex Pietrangelo. The team’s physical play, leading to high penalty minutes (129), needs discipline to avoid giving Colorado power-play opportunities. With 11 wins in net, Hill’s performance against Colorado’s potent attack will be pivotal.

Colorado’s offense, though inconsistent, has bright spots in Nathan MacKinnon (7 goals, 28 assists) and Mikko Rantanen (14 goals, 18 assists). The Avalanche rank 7th in goals scored with 75, but defensive woes are glaring, sitting last in goals against with 83. Special teams provide a silver lining as Colorado’s power play clicks at 29%. Goaltending remains a concern, with Justus Annunen posting a lackluster .872 save percentage and 3.23 GAA, leaving the defense under immense pressure.

Defensively, the Avalanche are vulnerable, with a penalty kill percentage of 71.9%. Injuries to key players like Jonathan Drouin and Ross Colton have further weakened the squad. To win, Colorado must limit Vegas’ offensive zone time and capitalize on scoring chances when presented.

Vegas’ balanced offense and superior special teams give them the edge in this matchup. Colorado’s defensive struggles and inconsistent goaltending are significant liabilities. Look for Eichel and Barbashev to lead the charge as the Golden Knights secure a road win. Final Score Prediction: Vegas Golden Knights win 5-3.