Remember when I talked about the three Vegas Golden Knights who stood out on the first day of Training Camp? Those three names did a good job of boosting their stock within the organization while keeping their futures bright. Well, I got some news for you, my friend.
I have three more names that are standing out during the 2025 Training Camp. It took a little bit more to see these players (okay, for one of them, not so much). But I saw their talents on full display during Friday's practice, getting a taste of what they could do if given the opportunity.
After all, you can't just go with one helping. No, you must prepare for the Thanksgiving feast in a couple of months and go full bore into your meal. Potatoes and gravy, anyone?
That's why I'm nominating three more Golden Knights for stick taps. These three names shone on Friday and have a brighter future ahead of them. Here's to these real heroes!
1.) Ben Hemmerling
Ben Hemmerling is one of the more forgotten prospects within the Golden Knights' farm system. Aside from being the guy that Gabriel Landeskog infamously put in a headlock, he had one goal and one assist in 17 games with the Henderson Silver Knights last season.
However, the right winger was firing off wristers and going bar down throughout Training Camp. He looked quick and ready to have a realistic redemption story with the Silver Knights this season.
That should inspire confidence in an AHL squad looking for forward help. With names like Matyas Sapovaliv coming off disappointing seasons, it would help Henderson if they could get maximum production from the winger. It would especially help if he got back to his Everett Silvertips numbers (64 goals and 143 assists in four seasons).
2.) Carl Lindbom
Look, what else is there to say about the prodigal prospect? He's great, he has "it", baby, and he's on track to make the team next season (at the earliest). However, he also showed fans what they can expect in the coming years.
He held his own against the likes of William Karlsson, Mark Stone, and Reilly Smith, making quick glove saves and effectively using his space along the crease. Of course, there was the usual awesomeness and prestigious ability that he possessed. Still, one shouldn't overlook what Lindbom can bring to the table, especially after a stellar showing to start Training Camp.
3.) Jaycob Megna
If you want some perspective on how big Megna is, he stands at 6'6". He'd be a good blue liner in the lower rungs based on his size alone. But he showed it throughout the first two days.
He gave Colton Sissons fits all day on Friday, getting the puck off him and effectively stonewalling him. The former Florida Panther was also great at playing stay-at-home defense, redirecting attackers and putting them in uncomfortable positions.
While there's a slim chance he cracks the main roster, watch for him to be a fill-in should a defenseman go down. Megna could be a nice hard-hitting defenseman that the doctor ordered in case of emergency.