The Vegas Golden Knights, who boasted the NHL’s best third-period goal differential during the regular season, are now facing late-game challenges in the 2026 Stanley Cup Final. After building commanding leads in both Game 2 and Game 3 against the Carolina Hurricanes, Vegas saw those advantages erased deep into the third period—nearly losing both games. Their 5-4 double-overtime win in Game 3 gave them a 2-1 series lead, but exposed growing concerns about closing out opponents.

Carolina’s resilience has been fueled by unexpected bounces, including two own-goals, and a refusal to concede even when down by four. Coach Rod Brind’Amour kept faith despite pulling his goalie early, and the Hurricanes nearly forced a sweep-avoiding win. Meanwhile, Vegas coach John Tortorella expressed frustration over overturned goals and a failed challenge in Game 2, maintaining that key calls went against them.

Despite the pressure, Vegas remains one win from a potential championship. The Golden Knights have shown resilience, resetting in overtime to survive. However, with Game 4 approaching in Las Vegas, the ability to protect leads into the final minutes will be critical. A loss would shift momentum to Carolina and set up a best-of-three with two games potentially played in North Carolina.