Overview
- The Hurricanes beat the Golden Knights 4-2 in Game 5 to go up 3-2 in the best-of-seven series, a result that leaves Vegas facing elimination in Game 6.
- Carolina gained control when Vegas took consecutive penalties in the second period and the Hurricanes converted two power-play goals that shifted momentum.
- Vegas goaltender Carter Hart has struggled through the Final, surrendering four or more goals in each game and prompting public questions about his form.
- Knights center William Karlsson exited Game 5 with an apparent upper-body injury and reportedly left the arena for the hospital, leaving his availability uncertain for Game 6.
- Game 6 moves to T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas as a win-or-go-home for the Golden Knights and could determine offseason decisions about goaltending, special teams and top-line production.