Golden Knights win the Pacific Division title, beating the Kraken 4-1

Mitch Marner scored in the third period to break a tie, leading the Vegas Golden Knights to a 4-1 victory over the Seattle Kraken and securing the Pacific Division title for the fifth time in their nine-year history. This win concluded the regular season for Vegas, who finished with a record of 39-26-17 and will face Utah in the first round of the playoffs. Reilly Smith added two late goals, and Shea Theodore also scored, while Carter Hart made 22 saves. The Golden Knights have been on a strong run, going 7-0-1 since John Tortorella became head coach. Seattle’s Shane Wright scored the opening goal, but the Kraken have now lost two consecutive games. Vegas needed only a point to clinch the division, staying ahead of Edmonton, who plays Vancouver next. QUESTION: How might the leadership change in the Golden Knights’ coaching staff impact their performance in the playoffs?