Since routing the Valencia Flyers 10-0, Las Vegas Thunderbirds have lost their previous three games heading into this match against division leading Fresno Monsters. Fresno has been victorious in its last five games and won 12 of its last 13 since Jan. 25 at Selland Arena.
Fresno has been guided by top point-man, Narek Aleksanyan, who leads the Western Division with 98-points in his first year; And a breakout season for Zackory Turpin who has 88-points. Fresno starting netminder, Max Karlenzig, is victorious in his previous five.
The Thunderbirds and Monsters aren't as frequent of opponents as you would think being in the same division. You have to go back to the first four games of the season in early Oct. to recollect a solid cluster of games. But the Central California side has come a long way since dropping four straight at Sobe Arena.
Fresno was able to avenge itself after reaching back-to-back wins against Las Vegas in Selland Arena to kick off 2020. And the Thunderbirds clinched the most recent win in a tightly contested 2-1 decision at the Gateway Ice Center. Fresno will look to close out its regular season with a pair of wins over a team they won't see again unless they both reach the Western Division Finals.
Sin City will start a five game road trip as it must head to San Diego after this, for a Western Division Semi-Final dance against the Sabers. Monsters will stay put as it will welcome the Ontario Avalanche in their first playoff round.