Golden Knights edge Mammoth in playoff opener

Nic Dowd's late goal lifts Vegas to Game 1 victory

Apr. 20, 2026 at 6:35am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game in progress, with the players and puck fragmented into overlapping angular shapes in the team colors of the Vegas Golden Knights and Utah Mammoth, conveying the dynamic action and competition of the playoff matchup.The Golden Knights' hard-fought Game 1 victory over the Mammoth sets the stage for an intense playoff series between these two Western Conference powerhouses.Las Vegas Today

The Vegas Golden Knights defeated the Utah Mammoth 4-2 in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series on Sunday night. Nic Dowd scored the game-winning goal in the third period, redirecting a shot from Noah Hanifin to put Vegas ahead for good.

Why it matters

The Golden Knights and Mammoth are two of the top teams in the league, so this opening game sets the tone for what should be a highly competitive playoff series between the two squads.

The details

With the game tied 2-2 in the third period, Nic Dowd deflected Noah Hanifin's shot from the point to give the Golden Knights a late lead they would not relinquish. Vegas held on to take Game 1 at home, setting up a pivotal Game 2 on Tuesday.

  • The game was played on Sunday, April 20, 2026.
  • Game 2 of the series is scheduled for Tuesday.

The players

Nic Dowd

The Golden Knights forward who scored the game-winning goal in the third period.

Noah Hanifin

The Golden Knights defenseman whose shot was deflected by Dowd for the decisive goal.

Utah Mammoth

The Golden Knights' opponent, one of the top teams in the league.

Vegas Golden Knights

The home team and one of the top squads in the league, hosting Game 1 of this first-round playoff series.

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What’s next

Game 2 of the series between the Golden Knights and Mammoth is scheduled for Tuesday, April 22, 2026.

The takeaway

This tight Game 1 victory for the Golden Knights sets the stage for what should be a hard-fought and competitive playoff series between two of the league's premier teams.