There hasn't been a bigger game in the Vegas Golden Knights' season than on Thursday. The Golden Knights take on the NHL's best team in the Winnipeg Jets. Two points are on the line and both teams need them for different reasons.
For the Jets, the Dallas Stars aren't going away any time soon. The Stars are four points back of the most points in the NHL, after all. With Mikko Rantanen and Jake Oettinger leading a "star"-studded lineup, Winnipeg needs to lock in and get as many points as possible.
As for Vegas? Well, you already know the story. Both the Los Angeles Kings (five points back) and Edmonton Oilers (seven points back) are within striking distance of the Pacific Division. Therefore, the home team must walk out of T-Mobile Arena with two points. Otherwise, you're leaving the door open for catastrophe.
What will be the game plan for Thursday's game? An all-out blitz where you get the first goal? What about a dump-and-chase strategy that breaks the opponent down? These strategies might make the heads of Toronto natives explode. But you can expect these to be implemented in some form on Thursday.
More importantly, who's out for tonight's game? Who could be available for Thursday's clash of the titans? You'd be surprised to see who's coming in for both the Golden Knights and Jets. Here's a breakdown of who's resting and who could be in tonight.
Vegas Golden Knights injury breakdown
The obvious answer here is Tomas Hertl is out for this game. He was labeled as "out" for the rest of this week due to an upper-body injury. However, fans did receive encouraging news regarding his status. The Prague native was seen practicing in a red, no-contact jersey on Wednesday. Fun "will be always" on the power play and even strength soon!
The good news is Alex Pietrangelo participated in line rushes and is expected back on Thursday. He's battled an array of nicks and scratches throughout the year, which has worn on his performance. Ilya Samsonov is day-to-day with an upper-body injury. Therefore, don't be surprised to see him back soon.
Winnipeg Jets injury breakdown
Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Jets have a more grotesque injury situation. They've seen countless skaters out of commission this season, including center Gabriel Vilardi. The forward (upper-body injury) is expected to be out until April 7, leaving some depth issues for the Jets. Winnipeg loses a cerebral player who carries solid size and puck-moving abilities with him.
Another skater out for Winnipeg is Neal Pionk (lower-body). He's expected to be out until April 5 and adds a passing element to the game. He's great on the power play and knows when to jump in on the play. The 29-year-old has six goals and 20 assists this season, keeping the Jets offense going.
Finally, there's Luke Schenn (undisclosed), who's playing tonight. Rasmus Kupari (concussion) is labeled with the day-to-day designation. Overall, Winnipeg's special teams unit has taken a massive hit in recent weeks. If you're wondering how the Vegas Golden Knights are in the top spot regarding the power play, this has something to do with that.