Let's venture back to the night of June 13, 2023. For some Vegas Golden Knights fans, they were heading into T-Mobile Arena to witness history. Some were slamming beers at Toshiba Plaza, making new friends as the sun departed. Others were watching from the comfort of their own homes.
It was an electric night as the Golden Knights obliterated the Florida Panthers in Game 5, 9-3. It secured the franchise's first Stanley Cup in history. New friends were made, "We Are The Champions" was belted throughout the night, and memories lasted throughout the magnificent summer. Fans had a newfound respect for Jack Eichel and were in awe of Bruce Cassidy's work.
Many people weren't expecting the Golden Knights to get close to that magic this season. However, they're back to their winning ways with 57 points, the most in the NHL. The team is playing incredible hockey, buoyed by a 9-3-2 start and an incredible month of December (10-2-0).
Could this be the year they bring home another Stanley Cup? Could the story get a sequel, complete with newer additions like Tomas Hertl? It seems like that could be the case, especially if they continue playing at a high level.
But what if *GASP* this team is better than that 2022-23 team? I know, it sounds sacreligious to say. It's like saying you're going to Las Vegas and avoiding the casinos. What fun is that? Anyway, let's explore why this year's team looks better than the Stanley Cup winner. Here are three reasons why that's the case.
Jack Eichel
Driving home from work, I heard Ryan Wallis talk about Jack Eichel and what he means to the Vegas Golden Knights. He's an excellent two-way center who elevates his teammates at every juncture. Even talks of being in the Selke conversation arose for a good reason.
Eichel (41 assists, 52 points) has shown Golden Knights fans what he's capable of when he's healthy. He has 13 power play assists and is doing great in the analytics department. According to Moneypuck, his shooting talent is 13.1% above average entering Saturday's game and his points per 60 minutes is 3.79.
There aren't enough words to express the importance of the four-time All-Star's presence on the Golden Knights. He makes everyone better and sets up incredible scoring opportunities for his teammates.
However, his skills go beyond the stat sheet. He's become the unequivocal leader this side of Mark Stone, becoming the team's focal point. Combine that with a better bill of health and opposing teams are having a heart attack. By the way, Eichel has more assists than he did last season (37 in 2023-24) and 2022-23 (39).