When Will Mark Stone Return?
With Mark Stone spotted in a red no-contact jersey at practice on Friday, it raises a glaring question: When will he return?
1. Mapping Out Mark Stone's Return
When Shea Theodore practiced in a no-contact jersey on February 10, he returned to the ice ten days later against Nashville. Tomas Hertl had the same situation, where he returned a week after skating in a no-contact jersey.
There's a noticeable pattern in player returns, where the injured player comes back to the ice shortly after donning the red jersey. That should be no different with Mark Stone, whose return from a lacerated spleen will boost the lineup.
Therefore, if one wanted to put together a reasonable timeline for Stone's return, it would be between one to two weeks. Generally, the no-contact jersey is for getting the player's feet wet, with Stone being no different.
2. Why Mark Stone's Return is a Game-Changer
Aside from the obvious offensive attributes (16 goals, 37 assists), Mark Stone is the lifeblood of the team. He's a leader that brings out the best in his teammates physically and emotionally. Last season, fans saw this in the playoffs, with the end result being a happy ending for all.
Any time a team gets their leader back in any capacity, they get their pulse back. With Mark Stone, he brings out the best in the Vegas Golden Knights. If the Golden Knights make the playoffs, they'll get their heart and soul back as well.
3. The Verdict
Mark Stone won't be returning for the regular season's last four games. There would be too much risk to rush out the captain, especially since he's had some history of injuries.
But the best bet for Stone's return to the Vegas Golden Knights would be in the first round of the playoffs. The forward will boost the group, adding more scoring depth and another two-way player to the mix. The Golden Knights are thankful to get their leader back at the right time.
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