SPORTS

Golden Knights Clinch Playoffs with Eichel's Overtime Winner

PUBLISHED Apr 11, 2026, 11:18 PM ET

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DENVER — The Vegas Golden Knights defeated the Colorado Avalanche 3-2 in overtime on Saturday at Ball Arena when Jack Eichel scored 1:19 into the extra period. Carter Hart made 30 saves, Pavel Dorofeyev recorded his 36th goal of the season, and Mark Stone added his third goal in two games. The victory clinched a playoff berth for Vegas and moved the team into first place in the Pacific Division with two regular-season games remaining; Vegas is reported at 91 points, passing Edmonton. Avalanche coach Jared Bednar was struck by a puck during the game, left the bench, and was taken to a hospital for a CT scan following the contest.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

John Tortorella was hired to replace Bruce Cassidy, preceding recent team improvement.
Carter Hart missed roughly three months with a lower-body injury before returning to the lineup.
Upon return Hart posted four wins in four starts, stabilizing goaltending.
On Saturday at Ball Arena Jack Eichel scored 1:19 into overtime as Vegas beat Colorado 3-2.
The win clinched a playoff berth for Vegas and Avalanche coach Jared Bednar was taken for a hospital CT scan after being struck by a puck.

News Intelligence

The Golden Knights' playoff clinch means more thrilling hockey for fans. If you're a Vegas supporter, it's time to celebrate and gear up for the postseason. And if you're a hockey fan in general, this adds an extra layer of excitement to the end of the regular season.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 4
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4

Who Benefited

The Vegas Golden Knights, their coaching staff and roster benefited by securing a playoff berth, reclaiming the Pacific Division lead and gaining momentum with two regular-season games remaining.

Who Impacted

The Colorado Avalanche suffered a narrow overtime loss and injury concerns after coach Jared Bednar was struck by a puck and required transport to hospital for a CT scan.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 4
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

The Vegas Golden Knights, their coaching staff and roster benefited by securing a playoff berth, reclaiming the Pacific Division lead and gaining momentum with two regular-season games remaining.

Who Impacted

The Colorado Avalanche suffered a narrow overtime loss and injury concerns after coach Jared Bednar was struck by a puck and required transport to hospital for a CT scan.