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Golden Knights vs. Jets: Game 1 prediction

By Elizabeth Lovato

NASHVILLE, TN - MAY 10: Paul Stastny #25, Nikolaj Ehlers #27, Tyler Myers #57, and Patrik Laine #29 celebrate a goal against the Nashville Predators during the first period in Game Seven of the Western Conference Second Round during the 2018 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Bridgestone Arena on May 10, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TN - MAY 10: Paul Stastny #25, Nikolaj Ehlers #27, Tyler Myers #57, and Patrik Laine #29 celebrate a goal against the Nashville Predators during the first period in Game Seven of the Western Conference Second Round during the 2018 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Bridgestone Arena on May 10, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images) /
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The Vegas Golden Knights take on the Winnipeg Jets in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals. Let’s make some predictions about what could happen in this game.

The Vegas Golden Knights have surprised the hockey world this postseason. They are exceeding expectations with a very talented team that has really proven it belongs among the best of the best.

Both teams have performed well so far in the playoffs, but it’s time to dial up the intensity with this much on the line in the Conference Final.

The Winnipeg Jets, above all, need to defend the Golden Knights offense. The offense averages at  least three goals per game. They have goal-scoring ability on all four lines, and this game will be no different.

But Vegas’ defense can hold its own. Put simply, the Golden Knights finds ways to win games.

Marc-Andre Fleury is a tough matchup for the Jets. He presents some challenges in this game that will be tough for the Jets offense to match.

On paper, the Golden Knights have the advantage. But the Jets should not be taken lightly, because they’re also a complete team. Winning a Game 7 to advance to this series brings its own kind of momentum.

Next: Predators pull Pekka Rinne in first period

Vegas will have to find ways to keep Mark Scheifele off the board. Scheifele is the Jets’ leading scorer with nine goals and five assists in 11 games. When he scores, the Jets more than likely will win.

There is a lot to like about this matchup. Expect some tense moments as these two face off in a important game.

Prediction: The Golden Knights defeat the Jets 4-3

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