In mid-September, the Vegas Golden Knights started their 3rd year of preseason games. If you’re like us, you’re excited about the Vegas Golden Knights’ 2019 season. Here’s what to expect from this season and the misfit’s latest roster.
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Last Season Recap
The 2018-2019 season saw the misfits make it to their second Western Conference in their second season of being a team. Electrified after their record-breaking inaugural season, the Knights entered the playoffs in third place, winning another nail biter in game 76.
Although they lost to the San Jose Sharks, the Vegas Golden Knights averaged 4.33 goals per game in 2018, the highest of the season. The NHL league’s average is a meager 2.83.
Not to mention, the team had the 2nd highest amounts of shots per game, missing the Carolina Hurricanes by a decimal point. This means the Knights averaged just over half of the shots taken each match.
With the previous season in the rearview mirror, are the Knights primed for another promising year?
2019-2020 Season and Roster
The misfits currently have 51 hockey players ready to play. In the NHL, there are 20 allowed on the roster.
NHL rules also state that during exhibition games, 8 veterans must play, the only exception being the Knights’ first year where they only had 3 veterans available.
Preseasons allow for some experimentation and practice. You may not see some of your favorites until later in the preseason.
Returning Players
These are the top players returning this season.
Marc-Andre Fleury – Goalie
They say defense wins championships and they’re not far from the truth when it comes to Fleury’s stats and heart-stopping saves. Many fans were thrilled to find Fleury extend his contract with the Golden Knights so that Fleury can call Vegas home for a while.
William Karlsson – Centerman
Considered one of the most “dangerous” shooters of the offensive line, Karlsson returns this season with 33 points in 37 games under his belt.
Ryan Reaves – Right Wing
The Canadian-American missed part of training camp due to an injury but is pumped to return to the ice for game time in October.
Max Pacioretty – Left Wing
Pacioretty launched the preseason with a stunning hat trick against Arizona’s Coyotes. The alternate captain was traded in September 2018 from the Montreal Canadiens.
Shea Theodore – Defenseman
A heavy-hitting offense is nothing without a strong defense. Over the summer, the defenseman wrote a heartfelt letter to his fans and family who supported him after his testicular cancer diagnosis. Theodore was eager and was reported feeling “lucky” to be on the ice after major surgery.
New Recruits
These are the top drafted and traded players joining the team this season.
Paul Stastny – Centerman
After 19 playoff games with the Winnipeg Jets, Stastny signed on with the Golden Knights for a 3-year deal.
Nick Holden – Defenseman
Former Bruin, Holden has several assists on the records, making him crucial for the offensive line. #22 has also played for the New York Rangers, the Columbus Blue Jackets, and Colorado Avalanche.
What to Expect This Season
The Golden Knights will start their 3rd season 8th in the Pacific Division, and they will commence their season against West Coast rivalries, the San Jose Sharks, Sunday, October 2nd.
Downtown Watch Zone Returns
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