Should fans be concerned for Tomas Hertl?

The Vegas Golden Knights had lofty expectations for last season's trade deadline acquisitions, Tomas Hertl and Noah Hanifin. The intention was to bolster their Stanley Cup chances and give the power play a kick. While the unit has gotten a boost from the duo, it seems there's something a little... off.

Hertl only has one goal and two assists to start the season. However, the Golden Knights have had no shortage of offensive stars in 2024-25. That includes Jack Eichel (two goals, eight assists), Mark Stone (two goals, seven assists), and Ivan Barbashev (four goals, four assists). The top unit has carried the bulk of the work for the franchise, leading them to a 3-2-1 start.

Still, neither Hertl nor Hanifin (one assist) has done much to inspire confidence in the fanbase. The duo combining for one goal and three assists hasn't helped the lower units do much. In turn, it's led to growing concern from fans, leaving them wondering if he'll turn out as promised. Even worse, some have brought a conspiracy theory that he's a double agent.

Should Golden Knights fans be worried that "fun isn't always?" Can Hertl go on a hot streak and turn his play around? Fans have worried about the play of certain players, specifically with Adin Hill. However, there should be more consideration for what's wrong with the most recent trade deadline acquisition... and what's right.

Why Vegas Golden Knights fans shouldn't worry about Tomas Hertl... for now

Yes, Tomas Hertl hasn't done much offensively this season. Scoring a goal and two assists in the first six games doesn't inspire much confidence in the Golden Knights. Some have worried he hasn't fit into Bruce Cassidy's system well, lagging behind his fellow teammates.

However, the Prague native was brought in for a singular purpose: To boost the power play. He's acted as a big body up front, deflecting shots and obstructing the goaltender's view. In fact, all of his points have come on the man advantage, leading the sixth-best unit in the league (29.4).

He's serving his purpose on the Golden Knights, turning the special teams unit into a strong force. That's especially true considering they haven't had a strong power play in franchise history. If there's one player who must improve, it's Noah Hanifin. The defenseman hasn't done much on the group, not producing any points. His only assist came on even strength against the Colorado Avalanche.

Should fans be concerned about the other parts of Hertl's game? Absolutely. He hasn't shown up on even strength yet and his back checking must improve. It was part of why the Florida Panthers won yesterday, where the defense had no bite. However, he's doing his duty on the power play, adding more bite to Vegas's attack. Plus, it's early in the season. There's ample time for players like Hertl, Hill, and Hanifin to turn things around. That's especially true with the upcoming four-game home stretch, which starts on Tuesday against Los Angeles.