Wait, didn't we just see these guys on Sunday? The Vegas Golden Knights played the San Jose Sharks on a quiet Friday night, preparing for the 2025-26 season. Mind you, these two teams played each other on Sunday, where San Jose won, 3-0. This calls for a bit of revenge on the Golden Knights.
But did they get it? Well...
They did. They defeated the Sharks, 2-1, and exacted their revenge.
Mind you, the roster was filled with Henderson Silver Knights for Friday's game. There wasn't much going for the group aside from getting valuable NHL experience under their belts.
This wasn't Mitch Marner and Jack Eichel setting up beautiful scoring opportunities for Vegas, you know. You wouldn't dare put them on the ice for a back-to-back in the preseason, would you? That would have some people looking at Bruce Cassidy like he just farted in the elevator.
So, let's look at what stood out and what wasn't working on Friday. What can fans expect while looking into the future for the Golden Knights? Who looked impressive enough to warrant serious consideration for a roster spot?
1.) The Vegas Golden Kn-err... Silver Knights penalty kill looked solid
The first period saw Tanner Laczynski take two tripping penalties in the first period. I know, two from the same player! Isn't that crazy?
But that put the Golden Knights' backs against the wall in the first period. They needed their penalty kill to be strong and fend off the Sharks' power play. Ask and you shall receive.
The Golden Knights prospects had no trouble with their exits throughout the game, killing off penalties in the process. Being all over the puck kept the game close, keeping Vegas competitive throughout the game. That's a promising sign for Henderson, especially if they want to get back to making the Calder Cup playoffs.
2.) The Golden Knights prospects must learn to finish
Eight shots on goal in the first period sounds nice. However, you're facing a young Yaroslav Askarov and you didn't get any goals in the process. The problem? A lack of finishing.
I know, that's what she said.
That's been the theme throughout the preseason, where Vegas hasn't had any luck scoring in the first period. While the prospects are still learning, they must learn to be more aggressive and crash the net.
If that isn't the case, the Silver Knights will have trouble generating offense of any kind. Mind you, they're not going to have Akira Schmid or Adin Hill stopping pucks all the time. Therefore, it's on the prospects to start carrying the load and being more aggressive on the attack.
3.) I like Cole Schwindt a lot
Schwindt doesn't get enough love or appreciation for his talents. He's an excellent fourth-line player with some offensive prowess. He got a second-period goal to tie the game, too.
I like Schwindt to be in contention for the 13th forward spot on the Golden Knights. He fits everything that Vegas needs should somebody go down. He's gritty and a solid two-way forward on the lower lines, making him a valuable piece for the upcoming season.
Bonus: Fleming must be careful with his hits
Joe Fleming had a rough hit (or trip, whatever you wish to call it) on Carson Wetsch in the third period. It led to him getting kicked out of the game and left Vegas on the penalty kill.
Much has been made about Fleming's transition from defenseman to forward, where he's looked good so far. However, miscalculating your check can lead to dangerous plays. That's where the Golden Knights prospect must be careful for future consideration.