You're looking at the man above (his name is Paul Levesque, A.K.A. Triple H) and wondering what he's doing on a Vegas Golden Knights post. Why is there a legendary WWE wrestler for an article about a hockey team? It feels out of place for something related to the NHL.
Well, dear reader, here's a short explanation.
Long ago, the Pittsburgh Penguins had the "HBK Line," consisting of Carl Hagelin, Nick Bonino, and former Golden Knight, Phil Kessel. The trio helped the Penguins win the Stanley Cup against the San Jose Sharks in 2016, providing ample production during the playoff run. With the line becoming a household name in Pittsburgh, it's only fair to introduce the other half of D-Generation X...
That's right, Golden Knights fans. There's a realistic possibility of seeing the "HHH line" at T-Mobile Arena. The line would consist of Alexander Holtz, Brett Howden, and Tomas Hertl. It would make for an interesting combination of forwards for Vegas, especially with players of different talents on the team.
At some point this season, I want to see…
— Ryan The Hockey Guy (@RyanHockeyGuy) September 26, 2024
Howden - Hertl - Holtz.
The Triple H line. pic.twitter.com/1EDLtUeMnB
But William Karlsson's absence makes this one step closer to becoming a reality. Let's see how effective the trio would be for the Golden Knights in 2024-25. The three forwards could provide fireworks for Las Vegas, having similar success to the "HBK Line" in Pittsburgh. Who's the anchor? Who's the X-factor to watch for?
What factors will cause the "Triple H Line" to be successful for the Vegas Golden Knights?
The obvious factor in a hypothetical "Triple H Line" for the Vegas Golden Knights is Alexander Holtz. The young winger has shown his worth in various situations, from the power play to the slot. How will he handle being part of a two-way system anchored by Tomas Hertl? Will he gel well with Brett Howden as the season progresses?
Last season, he scored 16 goals with the New Jersey Devils, providing solid offense for a balanced offensive team. However, his success will hinge on his play, where he must reduce turnovers and defensive lapses. Yes, Hertl and Howden can hold their own in transition. However, the Swedish forward can boost the unit's effectiveness through solid puck handling and decision-making.
Another factor is how Hertl adapts to the Golden Knights style of play. As William Grigsby mentioned, the two-time All-Star is flexible and can play in any line or situation. Players like this are difficult to find in the NHL, which makes the former Sharks star valuable. His adaptability and well-rounded play will help the line navigate the team throughout the season, especially if players like Karlsson are out.
Time to play the game!
The Vegas Golden Knights can replicate the success of the "HBK Line" for the Pittsburgh Penguins. The proposed "Triple H Line" would give Vegas balance, giving them good offensive upside with Tomas Hertl and Alexander Holtz while balancing everything with a good team away from the puck. It's something Bruce Cassidy desires in his lines, where teams can play the length of the ice.
It might also have sticking power with the Golden Knights, especially if that balance shines. Having a defensive-minded player like Brett Howden complement the offensive capabilities of Holtz would give the franchise versatility for the second or third unit. Most likely, this would be the latter, given that Holtz and Howden have that ceiling.
Whatever the case, Golden Knights fans who are also wrestling connoisseurs will love seeing the "HHH Line" come to life. It'll bring back memories of the WWE's past when D-Generation X would wreak havoc on the pro wrestling landscape. It could also give the hockey world fits, given that the players complement each other. If you're not down with that, they got two words for ya...