Here is a look at the key storylines surrounding the Vegas Golden Knights and their upcoming schedule for the week of April 6-13, 2026.
The John Tortorella Era Begins
The absolute biggest story surrounding the Golden Knights right now is their shocking late-season coaching change. On March 29, with just eight games left in the regular season, Vegas abruptly fired head coach Bruce Cassidy.
Despite the team holding a playoff spot, a mid-season slump prompted management to pull the trigger and bring in veteran bench boss John Tortorella. He is now tasked with reviving the team’s momentum right before the playoffs.
A Razor-Thin Pacific Division Race
Vegas is in the thick of a fiercely competitive fight for the Pacific Division crown. Entering this week, the Golden Knights are sitting at 35–26–16 (86 points), in third place but trailing the division-leading Edmonton Oilers and Anaheim Ducks by just a single point. Every game on this upcoming schedule is critical for playoff positioning.
Finding Their Stride Under Torts
Since Tortorella took over, the team has shown signs of a serious spark. They are coming off two massive momentum-building wins—a 6–3 victory over the Calgary Flames on April 2 and a commanding 5–1 blowout against the rival Oilers on April 4. Analysts and fans are watching closely to see if this aggressive new system holds up on the road.
Bizarre T-Mobile Arena Ice Issues
On a lighter note, the team recently dealt with an unusual ice delay at T-Mobile Arena during their game against the Flames, which was reportedly caused by a scientific issue with the painted logos under the ice surface.
Golden Knights Upcoming Schedule
The Knights are heading into a grueling, highly consequential four-game stretch. They will embark on a three-game road trip against Western Conference opponents—a massive test for Tortorella’s squad—before returning home to Vegas to close out this seven-day window.
| Date | Opponent | Location | Time (EDT) |
| Tuesday, Apr. 7 | @ Vancouver Canucks | Rogers Arena | 10:00 PM |
| Thursday, Apr. 9 | @ Seattle Kraken | Climate Pledge Arena | 10:00 PM |
| Saturday, Apr. 11 | @ Colorado Avalanche | Ball Arena | 8:00 PM |
| Monday, Apr. 13 | vs. Winnipeg Jets | T-Mobile Arena | 10:00 PM |
AI tools were used to support the creation or distribution of this content, however, it has been carefully edited and fact-checked by a member of The Hockey Writers editorial team. For more information on our use of AI, please visit our Editorial Standards page.
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