Vitek Vanecek's backup, Wedgewood, steps up big on May 7 in a performance that has coaches rethinking netminder rotations. Scouts whisper this could signal a changing of the guard for teams leaning on aging starters. His timely push adds intrigue to a tight series where every save shifts momentum.

Vegas storms into Utah's barn looking to build momentum in a tight Western Conference race where every point feels like gold. The Mammoth counter with their high-octane forecheck that's given expansion teams new life this season, but Golden Knights' depth players step up in ways that remind you why they own a Cup ring. Front offices across the league watch these matchups closely as playoff positioning hangs by a thread.

Utah Mammoth bow out of the playoffs, but optimistic fans see this as the launchpad for future contention. The expansion club's first run exposed strengths and gaps, fueling front-office plans for summer upgrades. In a league of parity, this foundation positions them as sleepers in the West.

Utah's front office moves fast to lock up Borikov on a three-year entry-level deal, signaling their intent to build around young talent in the desert. Agents I've talked to say this one's been in the works since the combine, with the kid's camp pushing for term over bridge offers. The Mammoth see him as a cornerstone piece, and this signing sets the tone for their summer plans.