On Tuesday, Cole Reinhardt filled in for an injured Colton Sissons. He was meant to play on the fourth line and aid Brett Howden in the attack. However, he did much more than that. The former Ottawa Senator set up the game-tying goal that would eventually lead to a Vegas Golden Knights 6-3 win over the Carolina Hurricanes.
What a game from the fourth line. And what a goal by Brett Howden— that’s his second superhuman goal of the season.
— Hannah Kirkell (@h_kirk6) October 29, 2025
3-3
pic.twitter.com/D50rOzFmoQ
A smooth pass on the rush finds Brett Howden, who returned from a minor injury to tie the game at 3-3. That play also reminded Golden Knights fans of one thing: Reinhardt might actually be good for Vegas.
You see, the Golden Knights haven't had much luck with getting goals aside from the top unit. While big names like Jack Eichel (NHL-best 19 points entering Wednesday) and Pavel Dorofeyev (nine goals, tied for the NHL lead), the bottom of the lineup hasn't had much juice. That includes Brandon Saad (one assist), Alexander Holtz (no points), and Keegan Kolesar (two assists) haven't gotten much going points-wise.
However, there could be a case where Reinhardt stays in the Golden Knights lineup for good. After all, he does have a goal and an assist in four games. But could he stick around for the long haul and play for Vegas?
Why Cole Reinhardt matters for the Vegas Golden Knights in 2025-26
I remember going to VGK Fan Fest and listening to Kelly McCrimmon talk about Reinhardt glowingly. He raved about his size and speed, talking about how well he adapted to the play. Along the way, McCrimmon mentioned that he'd make the Opening Night roster to the delight of the Golden Knights fanbase.
That stands with good reason. The 25-year-old plays like he has a chip on his shoulder every game, doing whatever it takes to make an impact. It doesn't matter if it's on defense or in the rush. Reinhardt wants to have a permanent spot on the Golden Knights.
After all, he didn't stand a chance on the Senators. The forward only played 18 games with Ottawa, scoring a goal and an assist in that span. Ironically, the Senators weren't as strong as the Golden Knights were between 2021 and 2025, with Vegas, well, winning a Stanley Cup.
Who could Reinhardt bump from the Golden Knights roster?
A couple of candidates stand out here. First, there's Brandon Saad, who's struggled to get going in the first 10 games. He has one assist in that span and has been subjected to numerous line changes. That includes playing with Jack Eichel and playing on the fourth line with Howden.
There's also Alexander Holtz, who hasn't had the best puck luck (Rhymes Like Dimes!) this season. As mentioned, he has no points, seeing numerous shots hit the post. Part of it isn't his fault since that's the way the puck falls. However, he hasn't capitalized on those chances, either. Therefore, he could be a logical choice for a demotion.
Whatever the case, Cole Reinhardt season is upon us. Get ready for gritty hockey and doing whatever it takes to win a hockey game. That's what the 25-year-old brings to Sin City. That's also what could turn him into a cult classic among Golden Knights fans. Get your popcorn ready because this season's going to be a blockbuster.