Pavel Dorofeyev’s last-minute goal not only secured a hat trick but also forced overtime in a crucial playoff game for the Golden Knights against the Utah Mammoth on April 30, 2026.
The Golden Knights had been trailing until Dorofeyev scored with just 52.7 seconds left in regulation, tying the game at 4. This was Game 5 of a best-of-seven series, currently tied at 2-2.
Dylan Guenther had earlier tied the game for the Mammoth in the third period. The Golden Knights ended a scoring drought of 13 power plays with Dorofeyev’s goal, which came from the right circle after they struggled to convert opportunities.
Key statistics:
- The Golden Knights scored four goals in Game 5.
- Both teams combined for 68 hits during the match.
- The Golden Knights were the NHL’s best third-period team during the regular season, boasting a plus-47 goal differential.
Neither team found the net in the first overtime, leading to a second sudden-death session. Both teams have struggled on power plays throughout this series, combining to go just one for eight.
The outcome of this game is crucial as both teams aim for advancement in the NHL playoffs. The next matchup will be pivotal for determining which team takes control of the series.
