As the NHL Playoffs intensify, the Vegas Golden Knights and Minnesota Wild prepare for a decisive Game 5 showdown. With the series currently tied, both teams will be desperate to gain the upper hand and move one step closer to advancing in the Western Conference bracket.
Match Details
| Match | Vegas Golden Knights vs Minnesota Wild |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, April 29, 2025 |
| Time | 9:30 PM ET |
| Venue | T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas |
| Competition | NHL Playoffs – Western Conference |
Head-to-Head Record
| Total Meetings | Vegas Wins | Wild Wins | Draws | Last Meeting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39 | 21 | 17 | 1 | Vegas 4–3 Minnesota (Apr 26, 2025) |
Insight: This playoff rivalry remains tight, with Vegas holding a narrow historical advantage. Their last match was settled in overtime, underlining how even the competition is.
Team Form and Standings
| Team | Regular Season Record | Last 5 Games | Last Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vegas Golden Knights | 50–22–10 | W-L-W-L-W | Won 4–3 (OT) vs Wild |
| Minnesota Wild | 45–30–7 | L-W-L-W-L | Lost 3–4 (OT) vs Golden Knights |
Analysis: Vegas have used their depth and playoff experience to stay consistent, while Minnesota’s inconsistency has hurt their momentum despite standout individual performances.
Key Players to Watch
Vegas Golden Knights
- Ivan Barbashev – Delivered the Game 4 winner in overtime and is showing clutch form.
- Tomas Hertl – Contributing both goals and playmaking from the top line.
- Shea Theodore – A reliable presence on defense who chips in offensively.
Minnesota Wild
- Kirill Kaprizov – Electrifying forward who can change the game in a flash.
- Marc-André Fleury – Veteran goalie expected to be the backbone in key moments.
- Zeev Buium – Rising star on defense with poise beyond his years.
Tactical Preview
| Team | Formation | Style of Play | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegas Golden Knights | 1-2-2 forecheck | Aggressive and structured | Depth, puck control | Susceptible to fast breaks |
| Minnesota Wild | 1-2-2 press | Quick transitions | Speed, young energy | Goaltending inconsistency |
Tactical Insight: Expect Vegas to lean on experience and structure, while Minnesota looks to inject speed and unpredictability. Special teams could be a difference-maker in a game this tight.
Predictions
| Category | Prediction |
|---|---|
| Full-Time Score | Vegas 3–2 Minnesota (OT) |
| First Goal Scorer | Kirill Kaprizov (Wild) |
| Total Goals | Under 5.5 |
| Possession Split | 52% Vegas – 48% Minnesota |
| Expected Key Moment | OT save or goal |
| Man of the Match | Ivan Barbashev (Vegas) |
Match Insight: With both teams evenly matched, this contest could once again go beyond regulation. Vegas’ home support and playoff acumen may just swing the result in their favor.
How to Watch Vegas Golden Knights vs Minnesota Wild
| Region | Broadcaster |
|---|---|
| United States | ESPN, ESPN+ |
| Canada | Sportsnet, CBC, TVA |
| United Kingdom | Premier Sports |
| Australia | Kayo Sports |
| India & Global | NHL.tv / Local listings |
Mobile & PC | Auto Quality
