3 important games for the Golden Knights in 2024-25

The 2024-25 NHL schedule has been released, meaning fans can start circling dates on their calendars. The Vegas Golden Knights will enter the season with slight changes, starting with a "new" team in the Utah Hockey Club. There are also notable names gone, such as Jonathan Marchessault. Next season will be different for fans going to T-Mobile Arena starting in October.

Yes, there won't be familiar faces around such as a certain Conn Smythe winner. However, 2024-25 offers the opportunity to wipe the slate clean. After prematurely exiting the Stanley Cup playoffs last season, there's hope for a new campaign for some. For others, it's uncertain after watching six unrestricted free agents depart for other teams on Monday.

Still, hockey will be back before everyone knows it. No longer will the sweltering Las Vegas heat melt citizens into oblivion, for it'll be a "cooler" time with Golden Knights hockey taking center stage. Instead of the sun in your face, you'll see Jack Eichel score ridiculous goals.

Thus, it's time to start looking at some important dates for Vegas this upcoming season. Let's build the anticipation for 2024-25 by looking at which games will be crucial viewing for Vegas Golden Knights fans. After all, there's nothing better than a good ol' hockey game, as Stompin' Tom will concur. However, there's a catch with this list.

The opening night game against the Colorado Avalanche won't be counted. Obviously, fans are looking forward to seeing hockey return to Las Vegas. Therefore, the home opener (and season opener) is the low-hanging fruit here. Still, there are three other games for fans to watch this season. What are these dates that should intrigue the fanbase?

Saturday, April 12, 2025 against the Nashville Predators (home)

If Vegas hockey fans want to see Jonathan Marchessault return to T-Mobile Arena, they'll have to wait until the season's end. The beloved "Original Misfit" comes back with his new team, the Nashville Predators, in a late game. He won't be alone, though. Big names like Steven Stamkos and Brady Skjei will accompany him to Las Vegas, bringing a brand-new Nashville team to the NHL.

It'll be an emotional night for many Vegas Golden Knights fans. Marchessault was one of the most revered members, for he built a legacy with the franchise. Aside from the aforementioned Conn Smythe trophy, he's also created a life here with various charitable work. He even has his children play youth hockey in Las Vegas, making him a community staple.

While there won't be a No. 81 skating around the ice in Las Vegas, fans can see one of their favorite "Misfits" skate at T-Mobile on this date. Expect a huge standing ovation along the way, for the player has earned it. That's especially true after scoring 192 goals and 225 assists during his Vegas tenure.

Friday, November 15, 2024 against the Utah Hockey Club

The Nashville Predators aren't the only Central Division team on this list. November 15, 2024, will mark the one time Golden Knights fans can head to the Delta Center. There, they will take on the Utah Hockey Club, which has undergone a major team makeover.

For one, they've bolstered their blue line, adding big names like Mikhail Sergachev and John Marino. These pieces were added to pair with a young team led by Clayton Keller. There's also the new team identity, where they were originally the Arizona Coyotes. With the desert team now defunct, owner Ryan Smith has made the team into a tough defensive group.

This is a road trip for fans to undertake considering the six-hour drive time. Fans can also check out various roadside attractions, including Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon. With the newly branded Utah Hockey Club joining the NHL, Vegas should look forward to enjoying some time in a scenic Beehive State.