If you haven't seen the latest Vegas Golden Knights round-up, the Olympic break is almost over. All that's left is the gold medal climax between the United States and Canada, providing what will be surefire ratings and cinema.
But that's not all. Golden Knights fans will see their favorite players on the ice, whether that's Jack Eichel, Mark Stone, Mitch Marner, or even Shea Theodore. Be sure to grab a whole pot of coffee for this game because the action starts at 5:10 AM PST on Sunday.
That also means that the Golden Knights themselves have returned to the ice. While the names aren't as Olympic-sized as Eichel or Marner, the boys still serve important roles. After all, five guys can't take on the world by themselves (although it'd make for an intriguing film).
With that, here are some notes straight from City National Arena on a quaint Saturday. The Golden Knights (and the rest of the NHL, mind you) are nearing a return to the ice and everyone must be in tip-top shape. Who's on the ice and who's working out the kinks?
Brandon Saad and Colton Sissons grace the ice in red no-contact jerseys
On Friday, the Vegas Golden Knights saw three key players return to the ice. That consisted of Brandon Saad, Brayden McNabb, and Colton Sissons. What's more, Saad and Sissons were back in red no-contact jerseys.
It might take a bit for more reinforcements to come back. However, it's a promising sign for the Golden Knights, specifically if they're looking to make a deep Stanley Cup run. Vegas needs more help in the more intangible facets, with all three players helping in a specific way.
Keegan Kolesar is underrated as an offensive player
As practice was happening, Keegan Kolesar skated down the ice on a one-on-one rush. He was tasked with getting past Braeden Bowman and putting a puck past Adin Hill. The winger did exactly that, blistering down the ice for a goal, with his teammates and the crowd in awe.
It's easy to see why Kolesar is so apt as a lower-line winger. Last season, he scored 12 goals and 18 assists and has five goals and 10 assists this season. It might've taken a bit to adjust for 2025-26. However, the native of Brandon, Manitoba has shown that he's extremely valuable in his role.
How will Adin Hill respond after the Olympic break?
Speaking of Hill, it took some time for the Golden Knights netminder to get back to form. He was beat on numerous shots, whether it was a slap shot or bar-down. The good news? He's adjusting during the Olympic break.
However, the team's success will hinge on how he responds after the break is over. Will he use his size to swallow up shots more efficiently? Can he build off his tremendous showing against the Los Angeles Kings before the break? If he plays efficiently, then the Golden Knights will have a smoother ride on the five-game road trip than people realize.