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In a pivotal playoff Game 1 clash against the Dallas Stars, the Vegas Golden Knights will receive a significant boost with the return of their captain, Mark Stone. Gary Lawless confirmed Stone's availability on Twitter.
Getting Stone back on the ice is a game-changer for the Knights, especially now when it matters most. They've really felt his absence, both in their offense and defense, so having him back in action couldn't be more crucial.
"Mark Stone @GoldenKnights captain: 'I'm going to play tonight,'" shared VGK Insider Gary Lawless on X (formerly Twitter)
With 53 points in 56 games, Stone was on pace for another stellar season.
For his return game, Stone is slated to skate alongside Chandler Stephenson and Tomas Hertl, forming a potent offensive trio. The return of William Carrier alongside Stephenson further bolsters the Knights' lineup.
The Golden Knights are aware of their difficult matchup against the Stars, who have clinched the top spot in the Western Conference and boast a seriously good postseason squad. But with Mark Stone back in the lineup, the Knights are ready to pick up their game and show what they're made of in Game 1.
Vegas Golden Knights' fortune plagued by injuries to captain Mark Stone, among others
The Vegas Golden Knights, despite leading in games lost during the regular season, have a question mark hovering over them: their team chemistry. And their last regular-season game, which ended in a 4-1 loss to Anaheim Ducks made it clear that they needed to work on their loopholes.
The roster does include good players but it still lacks cohesion due to injuries disrupting their lineup. However, if they can quickly develop chemistry, they'll be able to defend their championship title.
Their opponent, the Dallas Stars, top contenders in the regular season, stands tall like a mountain in front of them. The series winner will gain a confidence boost after defeating a strong opponent.
Golden Knights GM Kelly McCrimmon has crafted a team geared for postseason success.
McCrimmon's mantra is:
"We're in the winning business," reflecting his commitment to results-driven processes.
Under head coach Bruce Cassidy's guidance, Vegas navigated through a challenging regular season marked by injuries.
Adding crucial players like Tomas Hertl, Noah Hanifin, and Anthony Mantha before the trade deadline increased the Golden Knights' depth and talent for the playoffs, converting them into a more formidable team than they were in the fall.
Despite skepticism from experts, Vegas aims to prove its mettle and reclaim its championship form quickly. The narrative revolves around whether they can embody their signature style and prove doubters wrong.
