Golden Knights Back in Playoff Position Ahead of Sabres Showdown

Vegas has won two straight games to climb back into first place in the Pacific Division.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 9:05pm

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Thanks to two wins and some losses from their division rivals, the Vegas Golden Knights are back in good standing in the playoff picture heading into Tuesday's game against the Buffalo Sabres. The Knights have created slight separation from those still fighting for their playoff lives, but the top three in the lackluster Pacific Division is far from decided.

Why it matters

The Pacific Division has been a tight race all season, with several teams still firmly in the playoff hunt. The Golden Knights' recent wins have helped them regain control of their playoff positioning, but they still have a tough road ahead as they try to solidify their spot atop the division.

The details

The Golden Knights rolled into Buffalo on March 3 coming off a 5-0 loss in Pittsburgh, but back-to-back wins against Pittsburgh and Chicago have them feeling better about their game. Vegas is now just one point behind the Anaheim Ducks for first place in the Pacific, with the Edmonton Oilers one point behind the Knights for second. The Knights have also created a six-point cushion over the playoff cutline, but with several teams still in the hunt, the division race remains tight.

  • The Golden Knights defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday, March 14, 2026.
  • The Golden Knights defeated the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday, March 16, 2026.
  • The Golden Knights will host the Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday, March 19, 2026.

The players

Bruce Cassidy

Head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights.

Tomas Hertl

Center for the Vegas Golden Knights.

Adin Hill

Goaltender for the Vegas Golden Knights.

Jack Eichel

Center for the Vegas Golden Knights.

Buffalo Sabres

The Golden Knights' opponent on Tuesday, March 19, 2026, who currently lead the Atlantic Division.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.