It took one game to show why Jack Eichel needs a contract extension pronto

Jack Eichel and the Vegas Golden Knights were down to the Utah Mammoth, 2-0, heading into the third period. The Golden Knights had 10 shots on goal after two periods, yet they had nothing to show for it. The performance (or lack of) came with the obvious jokes.

"Fold the team!"

"The Vegas Golden Knights may never score again..."

Of course, you need to joke around a bit. After all, it's only preseason.

But there was legitimate concern from the fanbase regarding the team's offensive quietness. That is, until Eichel cashed in on a feed from his new buddy, Mitch Marner.

Look at the sauce on that pass. Call that BBQ because that was flavorful and delicious!

But that goes back to a broader point about Eichel. The superstar wasn't done, adding a second goal and evening things up.

Mind you, the Golden Knights won the game, 3-2, completing a dramatic comeback. Yes, it might be a preseason game and the points don't matter (as Drew Carey would eloquently say). However, it's nice seeing your franchise face lead the team to a remarkable victory.

In turn, that comeback showed why Kelly McCrimmon can't hesitate to extend said franchise face. He's vital to the team's success, regardless of where his number lies. Without him, do comebacks like Thursday's game happen on a dime? Probably not.

Kelly McCrimmon and Jack Eichel need each other more than ever, especially for the Vegas Golden Knights' sake

One thing that was extremely telling about Jack Eichel was how revered he was in Las Vegas. When discussing the possibility of Connor McDavid coming to Las Vegas, fans were dismissive of the Oilers superstar despite his incredible talents. Talks of McDavid choking and being too expensive came up, putting Eichel in a more favorable light.

Believe it or not, the former second-overall pick is an ideal fit for the Golden Knights. He has an incredible two-way game and does everything for the team. Plus, he worked incredibly well with Mitch Marner on Thursday with wonderful setups. It didn't matter if it was near the slot or the point. Eichel and Marner instantly clicked.

You can also say that the pair bonded over leaving bad situations in the Atlantic Division. Eichel was stuck with a perennial loser in Buffalo that never sniffed the playoffs. Marner was watched by the Toronto media and had extra weight from being the hometown kid. Add the absence of Stanley Cups since 1967 and the pressure feels like a heavy, wet blanket.

If you're McCrimmon, you can't break up that sudden bond. That sends a signal to other free agents that you're expendable, regardless of whether you score two goals and an assist or not. What fans saw was a man willing to do whatever it took to win a hockey game, the preseason be da*ned.

Thursday was merely a glimpse into what the future holds for Vegas if they extend Eichel. Endless puck creativity and feeds that lead to a Golden Knights victory. It's something that would define the franchise for years, making them one of the league's most dominant franchises.

Don't call it a comeback.