The Vegas Golden Knights are looking to rebound after a rocky patch, facing a schedule filled with opportunities to regain their winning form. Here's a breakdown of the week ahead:
The Week Ahead: Schedule
The Golden Knights have two home games this week.
- Thursday, January 29 vs Dallas Stars: The Golden Knights will face the Dallas Stars at 7:00 PM PT.
- Saturday, January 31 vs Seattle Kraken: The Golden Knights will host the Seattle Kraken at 7:00 PM PT.
Storylines to Watch
- Rebound Mode Activated: After a disappointing 7-1 loss to the Ottawa Senators, the Golden Knights will be aiming to bounce back. The team's performance against Ottawa was described by Captain Mark Stone as resembling "an NHL team versus a junior team". The team will need to refocus and address the issues that led to this defeat as they return home.
- Stone's Streak Interrupted: While Mark Stone is still a key player for the Golden Knights, his recent point streak came to an end. Stone's leadership will be crucial in guiding the team through this period and sparking a new run of success.
- Andersson's Integration: Rasmus Andersson, recently acquired by the Golden Knights, scored his first goal with the team in the game against Ottawa. Andersson believes that the Golden Knights are true contenders for the Stanley Cup. His smooth integration into the defensive lineup will be vital for the team's stability and success. Coach Bruce Cassidy paired Andersson with Noah Hanifin, leveraging their pre-existing chemistry from their time in Calgary.
- Goaltending Consistency: Adin Hill allowed seven goals against the Senators, tying his career high. Hill's ability to regain his form and provide stability in net is crucial for the Golden Knights' chances.
- Olympic Roster Representation: Forwards Mitch Marner and Mark Stone, along with defenseman Shea Theodore, have been named to the 2026 Canadian Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Roster. Defenseman Noah Hanifin was named to the 2026 U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Roster.
- Selling Stake: The Vegas Golden Knights are reportedly looking to sell a 10% stake in the franchise for $200 million.
- Linus Ullmark's Return: Linus Ullmark returned to the Ottawa Senators' lineup after addressing his absence, which was due to mental health reasons. He backed up Mads Sogaard in the 7-1 win against the Golden Knights.
- Mitch Marner's Performance: Mitch Marner had a strong performance against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
- Defensive Depth: With the addition of Rasmus Andersson, the Golden Knights have bolstered their defensive depth. Andersson joins Noah Hanifin and Shea Theodore, creating a top-three defensive lineup.
The Golden Knights have shown resilience throughout the season and will need to draw upon that as they face upcoming opponents. The team is still considered a contender for the Stanley Cup, and it is up to them to prove it.
