Brendan Brisson Is Now a Golden Knight. What Does He Bring to the Table?

In case you've heard the bad news, Jack Eichel had lower-body surgery, leaving him out on a week-by-week basis. With the sea of injuries plaguing the Vegas Golden Knights, reinforcements are desperately needed. Luckily, they have a former first-round pick that can help. His name? Brendan Brisson.

The former Michigan Wolverine comes in on the heels of Vegas losing arguably their most valuable player. Called up on Sunday, Brisson has the chance to showcase what he's made of during his tenure. The Pacific Division isn't getting any easier, either. Edmonton and Seattle are surging, Los Angeles is not far behind, and Vancouver is atop the league. On top of that, Brisson's a depth piece that the Golden Knights desperately need now.

So let's look at the former first-round pick, shall we? How can he set himself apart from Vegas's previous failures? What strengths does he bring to the table? Here's what Golden Knights fans can expect from their newest Clark Kent, who might turn out to be Superman.

2. Brendan Brisson's Impact

Brendan Brisson is regarded by scouts as an incredible problem-solving forward. That asset's vital if he's ever on special teams, for he can sniff out a look and make the according play. Therefore, Vegas can use his intelligence.

With both Jack Eichel and William Karlsson out for some time, it's expected that the winger will get some looks here. When he was called up on Sunday, the former first-round pick had a bit of a learning curve. He was outmuscled on some pucks and had to fight for his keep.

However, Bruce Cassidy said it perfectly, saying, "In those battles, these are men. This is a man's league. That's why we emphasize the fitness part."

Much of Brisson's game will grow over time. That includes his physicality, sense of the game, and his puck control. With more experience, he'll fit right into the lineup seamlessly.

3. Brendan Brisson's Strengths and Weaknesses

Aside from his hockey IQ, Brendan Brisson is also big on his mechanics. From making the perfect pass to having an incredible shot, the Manhattan Beach native has the template to become a dynamic offensive player.

However, he does have some areas to improve. You can't expect anyone to be perfect, you know. First, he must get bigger. Standing at 6'0" and weighing in at roughly 185 lbs., Brendan Brisson can get pushed around easily.

The winger also doesn't have breakneck speeds, making his offensive efficiency more challenging. He would be better in non-transition situations, preferring to set up plays while picking apart defenses. Still, this is Brisson's domain, which will make him a deadly threat against the competition.

For all of Vegas's past successes, they've rarely had a first-round pick work out for them. After all, most of them have been traded away (Zach Dean and Nick Suzuki). Brisson has the chance to dispel the myth, becoming an incredible force for a team in need of depth. Now that would save the day.