Detroit Red Wings vs Las Vegas Golden Knights March 16 2025

Red Wings Blank Golden Knights 3-0: Mrazek Records Shutout in Crucial Victory

The Detroit Red Wings delivered a commanding performance at Little Caesars Arena on Sunday, shutting out the Pacific Division-leading Vegas Golden Knights 3-0 before a sellout crowd of 19,515. Goaltender Petr Mrazek turned aside all 18 shots he faced to record his first shutout of the season and the 14th of his career.

Game Summary

In a game with significant playoff implications for both teams, the Red Wings broke through in the second period and never looked back. They added two insurance goals in the third to secure a vital victory. The win comes at a critical time for Detroit. They had lost seven of their previous eight games and are battling for a wild card position in the Eastern Conference.

Period-by-Period Breakdown

First Period

The opening frame saw both teams testing each other with neither able to break through. Despite several quality chances on both sides, goaltenders Petr Mrazek and Ilya Samsonov stood tall, keeping the game scoreless heading into the first intermission.

Second Period

The Red Wings finally broke the deadlock midway through the second period:

7:58 — Albert Johansson (2) scored his second career goal, assisted by Vladimir Tarasenko and J.T. Compher

The goal energized the home crowd and gave Detroit a boost of confidence that carried through the remainder of the period. The Red Wings’ defense limited Vegas to just 9 shots through two periods.

Third Period

Detroit pulled away in the final frame with two additional goals:

4:51 — Lucas Raymond (23) extended the lead with his 23rd goal of the season, assisted by Elmer Soderblom
11:14 — Marco Kasper (13) put the game out of reach with Detroit’s third goal, assisted by Erik Gustafsson and Patrick Kane

The Red Wings’ defensive structure tightened even further in the third period. They allowed the Golden Knights just 4 shots in the final 20 minutes, securing Mrazek’s shutout.

Standout Performances

Petr Mrazek’s Milestone

Mrazek was perfect in net, stopping all 18 shots he faced to earn his first shutout of the season. This performance marked his 14th career shutout and first since January 22, 2018, providing a much-needed boost for the Red Wings’ goaltending situation.

Defensive Excellence

Detroit’s blueline corps was exceptional, blocking 16 shots and limiting the normally potent Vegas offense to just 18 shots on goal. The defensive unit was particularly effective in the third period. They allowed just 4 shots while protecting their multi-goal lead.

Offensive Contributions

The Red Wings received scoring from three different players, showcasing their depth. Albert Johansson’s goal was just the second of his NHL career, while veterans Lucas Raymond and Marco Kasper continued their consistent offensive production.

Playoff Implications

This victory carries significant weight for both teams in their respective playoff races:

The Red Wings (32-29-6) moved to within two points of the New York Rangers for the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. After losing seven of their previous eight games, this win could mark a turning point as they prepare to embark on a four-game road trip.
The Golden Knights (39-20-8) have now lost four of their last five games. But, they still maintain a four-point lead over the Edmonton Oilers in the Pacific Division. The offensive drought is becoming a concern for Vegas as the playoffs approach.

Game Notes

Attendance: 19,515 (sellout)
Officials: Referees Jean Hebert and Brandon Blandina; Linesmen James Tobias and Kyle Flemington
The Golden Knights were playing the second game of a back-to-back, which may have contributed to their lower shot total and energy level
Detroit successfully killed off both of their penalties, while Vegas took three minor penalties

The Red Wings will look to build on this momentum. As they head out for a crucial four-game road trip, the Golden Knights return home looking to regroup and solidify their division lead.

Photos: Tim Jarrold – In Play! magazine