The Vegas Golden Knights are heading into a busy week, with several key storylines developing both on and off the ice. Here's a look at what's ahead for the team and its fans:
Marner Returns to Face Former Team
The Golden Knights are preparing for a high-profile matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs on January 15. This game marks Mitch Marner's first time facing his former team since being traded to Vegas last summer. Marner, who was drafted fourth overall by Toronto in 2015, spent the first eight years of his NHL career with the Maple Leafs, becoming one of their top players. The sign-and-trade deal that brought Marner to Vegas sent Nicolas Roy to Toronto.
Since joining the Golden Knights, Marner has been a key contributor, showcasing his playmaking abilities and offensive skills. In his 700th career game, Marner scored a goal and an assist in a 4-2 victory over the St. Louis Blues.
Stone's Scoring Streak
Mark Stone is currently on a hot streak, tying Max Pacioretty's franchise record by scoring in seven consecutive games. Stone's impressive run came to an end on January 12 in a 7-2 win over the San Jose Sharks, although he contributed three assists in the game. Stone has been a consistent offensive force for the Golden Knights this season. Before his streak ended, Stone had 15 goals and 23 assists in 27 appearances.
Injury Updates
The Golden Knights have been dealing with several injuries recently. Goaltender Carter Hart is out week-to-week with a lower-body injury. Hart was injured during a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. With Hart sidelined and Adin Hill also recovering from an injury, Akira Schmid is expected to take on the starting role. William Karlsson is still not close to returning from a lower-body injury sustained in November. Brandon Saad is day-to-day with an injury and missed the game against the San Jose Sharks. Shea Theodore recently returned to the lineup after missing a month with an upper-body injury and scored a goal in the win against the Blues.
Upcoming Games
Here’s a look at the Golden Knights' upcoming schedule:
- January 14: at Los Angeles Kings
- January 15: vs Toronto Maple Leafs
- January 17: TBD
The Golden Knights are currently working to solidify their position in the Pacific Division standings. Recent wins against the Winnipeg Jets, Columbus Blue Jackets, and St. Louis Blues have helped the team regain momentum after a challenging stretch.
