Ahead of the season, the Vegas Golden Knights were highlighted by many as a candidate for the Stanley Cup dent that will be lifted by the NHL's best team in June.
In recent weeks, the star team has worked hard to secure a playoff spot, but after losing 4-3 to the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday night, it is clear that Vegas will not advance to the playoffs at all.
- I am disappointed and stand at the forefront of responsibility.
There are high expectations for this team, so it's not easy and it does not feel good for anyone right now, says Vegas coach Pete Deboer.
Star Max Pacioretty, who has been sidelined with several injuries during the season, is back in action and scored one of the Vegas goals in the losing game against Chicago.
- On paper, no one can say that we are missing something, we have everything.
At the same time, everyone knows that hard work beats talent and the most important thing of all is team chemistry both on and off the ice, says Pacioretty.
With one round left to play in the regular season, all 16 playoff teams are now ready and it was the Dallas Stars who snagged the last playoff spot after taking a point in the overtime loss, 3-4, against Arizona.
Dallas took a 3-0 lead, with John Klingberg noted for an assist for the 3-0 goal.
Arizona, however, were game-hungry and came back in third, where the recovery was initiated by Anton Strålman.
The Swedish 35-year-old has accounted for five points in the last three matches.
After two more Arizona goals, it was 3-3 to full time where Travis Boyd finally decided for Arizona.
The Stanley Cup playoffs begin on May 2nd.