Sunday thoughts about... going back to school

Remember when you were a kid and returning to school was one of the more dreaded things ever? At least, if you weren't growing up in Las Vegas. The summers were awesome and we had fun-filled days by the pool. It was the perfect escape in the Midwest, where children didn't have to worry about their bills, mortgage, or other adult responsibilities.

But it's different in Las Vegas, where the winter months are much more bearable. Citizens don't have to worry about shoveling six feet of snow during the cold months of January. Even when it does snow on the blue moon, it only leaves a few inches at best. Life is good for residents of Sin City.

What's more, they have a hockey team that'll take the ice in October. It wasn't that long ago that the same team was hoisting the Stanley Cup. Fans want to see the Vegas Golden Knights win another title in their current run, bringing the party to Las Vegas again.

But it's more than just the Golden Knights who will return. There's also the Henderson Silver Knights, who have some exciting prospects coming up. Names like Brendan Brisson have made a name for themselves in the lower leagues. In turn, it gives Kelly McCrimmon hope and an easier time making tougher decisions. Also, the Tahoe Knight Monsters are starting their inaugural season this year, giving fans a reason to check out more hockey.

Why should fans see the Vegas Golden Knights, Henderson Silver Knights, AND the Tahoe Knight Monsters?

Obviously, Vegas Golden Knights hockey is the highest level on the ice. Fans get the chance to see superstars like Jack Eichel and William Karlsson take on opponents like Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon. Plus, the sheer spectacle of T-Mobile Arena makes it a bucket list item for numerous hockey fans. Go to Vegas AND see an NHL game? Sign me up!

But there's also the Henderson Silver Knights, who offer cheaper tickets and a similar experience. Huzzah! It's time for AHL hockey at Lee's Family Forum, where the Silver Knights will take on the stars of tomorrow. Who knows? Fans might get to see the next Brendan Brisson take the ice.

Perhaps you don't live in Las Vegas and are closer to Lake Tahoe? Never fear because the Tahoe Knight Monsters are here! They'll start their inaugural season in the ECHL, adding another element to hockey in Nevada.

Overall, it's a good time to be a hockey fan in the Silver State, specifically in Las Vegas. Now near Lake Tahoe, that's a different story. But in Las Vegas, you can enjoy the NHL without worrying about driving in the snow or shoveling it. It's what makes living here much more fun. Plus, new fans can learn about the game and the basics like they're back at school.