Golden Knights practice notes after clinching the Western Conference

The Vegas Golden Knights were living the high life after defeating the Colorado Avalanche on Tuesday. Vanquishing the Presidents' Trophy winners, 2-1, is enough reason to cheer, especially after sweeping the series. But going to your third Stanley Cup Final in your first nine seasons? Now, that's something.

You can't give enough credit to Kelly McCrimmon for having the balls to make the toughest moves possible. That includes getting rid of Bruce Cassidy and adding smaller names such as Nic Dowd to the mix. Lo and behold, the Golden Knights are heading to the Stanley Cup Final again.

Of course, it makes perfect sense for John Tortorella and company to prepare for the Stanley Cup Final. That means making the boys do laps around the rink as the people cheer. Yes, that has become a thing and it shows why Vegas Golden Knights fans are the best in the business.

So, let's go over the notes and see what's happening within the realm. What did the dampened Golden Knights faithful witness as their favorite team fine-tuned everything before Game 1? Let's dive into the notes and see what's shaking in Summerlin and Sin City, shall we?

Brayden McNabb was not on the ice for the Golden Knights

The Vegas Golden Knights had a notable absence from Friday's practice. They saw that an Original Misfit wasn't present for the morning skate, leaving Ben Hutton to draw in his place. The man in question? Brayden McNabb.

The Golden Knights will await word on whether the absence is more severe than initially thought. But Vegas could use some back-end help, especially with the Stanley Cup Final looming. That way, Carter Hart will be protected and thank the high heavens for having extra protection.

The rushes look good for the Vegas Golden Knights

The Vegas Golden Knights aren't one of the most prolific rush teams in the NHL. They pale in comparison to teams like the Colorado Avalanche and the Edmonton Oilers (although the Golden Knights did beat both teams during the John Tortorella era).

Still, they showed their speed and finesse throughout Friday's practice. There were plenty of solid odd-man rushes that translated into goals, putting the defense and the netminder on their heels. Expect this to be the focus when the Stanley Cup Final rolls around.

Carter Hart's glove continues to shine for the Golden Knights

This postseason, Carter Hart has been one of the bright spots for the Golden Knights. He has a GAA of 2.22 and a save percentage of .924, providing in-net stability. That's something that Vegas has desperately needed in net all season, especially with a wave of injuries.

That was no different for Hart, who flashed his glove with ease. Not only that, but his angles and lateral movements were on point. That type of play has been the story for the goaltender this season. In turn, it's allowed the Golden Knights to come back in certain spots and win games.

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