The returning grinder provides more depth for the Vegas Golden Knights ahead of the Stanley Cup Final.
As the last days of practices tick down, the Vegas Golden Knights are making their closing preparations for their toughest challenge yet. The Winnipeg Jets are in the rearview mirror, and the Washington Capitals are the last team that could destroy the Golden Knights dream season. This Stanley Cup Final series is going to go down in the books as one of the most unlikely championship series in league history.
The Golden Knights obviously because they’re in their inaugural season. And the Capitals for not making any moves at the deadline and staying the course with their roster. Also, one of these franchises will be lifting the Cup for the first time.
Washington looks like they’ll have both Brooks Orpik and Devante Smith-Pelly ready for game one of the Cup Final after both suffered injuries in the Capitals game seven victory against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Both are key components in the Caps run to the Cup. As for the Golden Knights, they received some good news on the injury front as well.
During Saturday’s jammed packed practice at City National Arena, William Carrier remerged on the ice. Although, he was wearing a red non-contact practice sweater. Once he sheds that red jersey, he can practice in all drills and activities with his teammates.
However, there is a bit of a problem. Ryan Reaves not only has stepped in and done a great job but he’s doing way more than whats expected from him. Reaves has taken and dished out big hits to Dustin Byfuglien in the last series against the Jets. He even scored the series-clinching goal in game four of the Western Conference Finals due to a fantastic tip.
I don’t think Golden Knights Head Coach is willing to put both Reaves and Carrier in the lineup as they bring both similar elements. They’re both physical and bring a heavy-hitting style of play, and they agitate the opposition on numerous occasions. Except Carrier brings much more speed to his game and draws a ton of penalties.
Carrier had a great series against the Los Angeles Kings even though he didn’t show up on the scoresheet. However, he clearly got under the skin of Norris Trophy candidate Drew Doughty and threw him off of his game. Additionally, Carrier took a high hit from Doughty which resulted in a one-game suspension for one of the leagues best defenseman.
Gallant spoke to the media today and said that he expects Carrier to be available for the Stanley Cup Final. No word on when during the series, but it looks like we potentially may get to see the LaSalle, Quebec native.
Next: Vegas Golden Knights VS Washington Capitals Season Series Recap
All in all, Gallant has another tough lineup decision on his hands when Carrier is ready to play. I think Gallant will go with Reaves to start, but if things go sideways quickly, expect to see a change. Game one of the Stanley Cup Finals is only two days away, and it begins at T-Mobile Arena. Puck drop is at 5 PM PT on NBCSN.