You enter T-Mobile Arena for a Vegas Golden Knights hockey game. You see everything VGK-related, including the Vegas Vivas and a mascot. Who is this mysterious gila monster? It's none other than Chance! The lovable mascot has been with the team since the inaugural season, rooting for his favorite NHL team. Throughout the years, he's seen the Golden Knights make two Stanley Cup Final appearances, winning a championship in 2023.
No, he's not a monster, but rather a lizard. The gila monster is one of two venomous lizards found in North America. In fact, they're the only venomous lizard found in Nevada. They don't have fangs like serpents do, though. Instead, they chew their prey and administer the venom this way through their grooved teeth.
What else is there to learn about the best mascot in the NHL? What other fun facts about gila monsters do Golden Knights fans not know about? Get your pens and pads of paper out because it's time to learn more about the great state of Nevada! Let's see what makes Chance a beloved figure within the Golden Knights community.
Learning more about Chance and gila monsters in Nevada
Initially, the Vegas Golden Knights mascot was met with backlash from fans who hated the design. However, the team responded and stood up for their new partner, making him feel welcome. It's no wonder the Golden Knights have become one of the most successful franchises in the NHL. They've stood up for one of their own and have received good karma.
But what about the gila monster? They can go months without eating because they can store fat in their tails. It must save Vegas's mascot plenty of trips to the concession stand because he won't have to spend $20 on T-Mobile Arena's food (even if it's good). However, they need water and can be seen outside their burrows during a spring or summer rainstorm.
They will also occupy burrows dug by other occupants, finding a home for themselves. Gila monsters dig burrows with their long, sharp claws, where they spend most of their time buried. That's part of why there have been no fatalities from these lizards since 1930. People have avoided them because these lizards have been underground.
Chance might've gotten off to a rough start with the fan base, receiving plenty of disdain from the crowd. However, Golden Knights fans have warmed up to him, for he's become an essential part of the team. It's time to take a "chance" on the gila monster and show him some love for the upcoming hockey season!